How to import a database into Excel step by step

Last update: 26/02/2025
Author Isaac
  • Excel allows you to import data from databases SQL, CSV files, and web pages.
  • Power Query and ODBC connections make data integration and automation easy.
  • Imported data can be synchronized to always stay up to date.
  • Macros and third-party tools allow you to manage data efficiently.

Import database to Excel

Import data into Excel It can be an essential task to manage information from various sources and analyze it easily. Excel offers multiple ways to import data from databases, text files, other spreadsheets, and even web pages. With the right methods, you can automate y synchronize These processes for save time y improve accuracy of the data.

In this article, we will explore in detail how to import a database into Excel from various sources including SQL Server, CSV files, web pages, and more. We will also cover advanced methods such as Power Query and using macros to facilitate the process.

Import data from a SQL database into Excel

Import data from SQL to Excel

If you work with SQL databases and need extract information to Excel, there are several methods to do this:

  • From the Data tab: In Excel, go to Data > Get Data > From Database > From SQL Server.
  • With Power Query: It allows you to model data before importing it, facilitating its analysis.
  • Using an ODBC connection: Set up an ODBC connection on your system to connect Excel directly to your SQL database.

Once the data is in Excel, you can manipulate and organize them using pivot tables or other tools.

Import data from CSV and TXT files

If you have data stored in text or CSV files, you can easily import them into Excel:

  • Open Excel and go to Data > Get and transform data > From a text/CSV file.
  • Select the file and define how the data is delimited (commas, tabs, semicolons, etc.).
  • Click on Load to import the data into an Excel sheet.

Excel will identify the separators and will organize the data into columns, maintaining the proper format.

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Import data from a web page

To collect information from websites into Excel, you can use the Web Data Import tool:

  • Go to the tab Facts & figures and click Get data > From the web.
  • Enter the URL of the website you want to extract data from and click Accept.
  • Select the table or information you need and click Load.

This method is ideal for importing data updated periodically from websites without having to copy them manually.

Data synchronization and automation

If you need to keep imported data always up to date, consider using tools such as:

  • Excel macros: Automate data import with VBA.
  • PowerQuery: Allows you to schedule automatic updates of imported data.
  • Cloud Connections: Like Coupler.io, which facilitates integration with various platforms.

Thanks to these options, you can schedule your data updates without manual intervention.

Mastering the import of databases in Excel is key to improving the management and analysis of information. By knowing the different sources and tools available, you can optimize your workflow and automate repetitive tasks to be more efficient in handling complex data.