Why does my CSV look wrong in Excel?

Check the delimiter (some use semicolons). In Excel: Data → From Text/CSV → Select correct delimiter.

this format

Access this file

Q: How do I convert CSV to Excel?

Open the CSV in Excel, then File → Save As → Excel Workbook (.xlsx). Or just keep using CSV—Excel handles it fine.

Comma-Separated Values

Quick Facts About CSV Files

Full NameComma-Separated Values

DeveloperVarious

CategoryData

MIME Typetext/csv

First Released1972

Open StandardYes (RFC 4180)

Quick Facts

Full NameComma-Separated Values

CategoryDocuments

MIME Typetext/the extension

What is a This file File?

A Such files file (Comma-Separated Values) stores tabular data in plain text format. Each line represents a row, with values separated by commas. The extension is the universal format for exchanging data between spreadsheets, databases, and applications. While simple, CSV files can contain thousands of rows of data and are supported by virtually every data tool, from Excel to Python.

How to Open This type Files

The file files open in any spreadsheet:

Excel: Double-click to open
Google Sheets: File → Import → Upload
View raw: Open in Notepad or any text editor
Programming: Python pandas, R, any language with This format libraries

Recommended Programs

Program	Platform	Best For	Price
Microsoft Excel	Windows/Mac	Full editing	$69.99/year
Google Sheets	Online	Free spreadsheet	Free
LibreOffice Calc	All	Free alternative	Free
Notepad/TextEdit	All	View raw data	Free

Frequently Asked Questions About Opening CSV Files

What is a CSV file? +

CSV (Comma-Separated Values) is a plain text format for tabular data. Each line is a row, with values separated by commas.

How do I open a CSV file? +

Double-click to open in Excel/Google Sheets. Or open in any text editor to see raw data.

How do I convert CSV to Excel? +

Open the This format in Excel, then File → Save As → Excel Workbook (.xlsx). Or just keep using CSV—Excel handles it fine.

Why does my The format look wrong in Excel? +

Check the delimiter (some use semicolons). In Excel: Data → From Text/This file → Select correct delimiter.

Related File Types

Quick Summary: How to Open This type File

To open This type file on any device: Windows users can use built-in apps or free software. Mac users have native support. Mobile users can download free apps. The easiest way to access this files is using the recommended tools above.

Related File Formats

If you work with this format files, you might also need these related formats: