Convert XLS to CSV

File Extension XLS
Full Name Microsoft Excel 97 To 2003 Workbook Format

Files with the .XLS extension contain a spreadsheet encoded in binary form, namely cells distributed into rows and columns and containing data, graphs, and macros. The files were unique to the Microsoft Excel software before the Excel 2007 version, in which they were replaced by the more universal and open XML-based format, XLSX.

File Extension CSV
Full Name Comma Separated Value Format

The file extension .csv refers to a popular file type known as the comma separated value files. These are mostly used as open data set files.The file structure of the CSV file as the name suggests is mostly based on the separation of data using a delimiter which in most cases is a comma (,).

What is file format conversion?

File format conversion is the process of transforming a file from one format (referred to as "XLS") to another (referred to as "CSV"). This may be necessary for various reasons. For example, XLS file may be incompatible with the software or device we want to use to open or edit it. In such cases, converting the file from format XLS to format CSV becomes essential.

So, how can we perform XLS to CSV file conversion? Fortunately, there are many tools and computer programs available that enable file format conversion. These tools work by reading the data from the file in format XLS and transforming it into format CSV. This allows the preservation of the original information contained in the file, even after changing its format. Below you will find a list of XLS to CSV converters.

Conversion from XLS to CSV

How to convert the XLS file to CSV?

If you have already downloaded one of the converters and installed it on your computer, you can proceed to the appropriate conversion process of XLS to CSV. Handling all the programs is usually very intuitive and is based on the same pattern of conduct. We will briefly discuss a few steps that you always need to go through while changing the format of the XLS file:

  • Please indicate on your computer the source file XLS, the format of which you are going to change
  • Load the XLS file to the application
  • Select the output format of the CSV file (the one that we want to achieve)
  • Select the location to save the output file CSV on the disk (the place where the program will save the converted file)
  • Confirm conversion
  • Wait for a moment
  • Enjoy the converted CSV file that can be found in the location selected in step 4
I cannot see the file extensions. What should I do?

File extensions are not normally displayed to users. To change this, go to Control Panel, select Appearance and Personalization and Folder Options. Next, select the View and find the option "Hide extensions for known file types". The option should be deselected (cleared) and confirmed with OK.