Opening an Xlsm file in Google Sheets is a common task for many users who want to access and edit Excel files with macros on a web-based platform. This tutorial will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to open and convert Xlsm files in Google Sheets, so you can work with them seamlessly.
Why is it important to open Xlsm files in Google Sheets?
Google Sheets offers several advantages over traditional desktop applications like Microsoft Excel. These advantages include:
- Web-based access: Google Sheets allows you to access and edit your files from any device with an internet connection.
- Collaboration: Multiple users can work on the same file simultaneously, making it easier to collaborate on projects.
- Real-time updates: Changes made to the file are automatically saved and synced, ensuring that everyone has access to the latest version.
- Cost-effective: Google Sheets is free to use for individuals and offers affordable pricing plans for businesses.
How to open Xlsm files in Google Sheets
To open an Xlsm file in Google Sheets, you need to convert it to a Google Sheets format (.gsheets) first. Follow these steps to do so:
Step 1: Save your Xlsm file in a compatible format
Microsoft Excel does not allow you to directly save an Xlsm file in a Google Sheets format. To work around this limitation, follow these steps:
- Open your Xlsm file in Microsoft Excel.
- Click on “File” and then “Save As.”
- Choose a location to save the file and select “Excel Workbook (*.xlsx)” as the file format.
- Click “Save” to save the file in the new format.
Step 2: Upload the converted file to Google Drive
Once you have converted your Xlsm file to an Xlsx format, you can upload it to Google Drive and convert it to a Google Sheets format:
- Go to Google Drive and sign in to your account.
- Click on the “+ New” button in the top-left corner and select “File upload.”
- Browse for the converted Xlsx file and click “Open” to upload it.
- Right-click on the uploaded file and select “Open with” > “Google Sheets.”
- Google Sheets will automatically convert the file to its format.
Conclusion
By following these steps, you can easily open and convert Xlsm files in Google Sheets. This will allow you to take advantage of the benefits of web-based collaboration and real-time updates, all while maintaining compatibility with your existing Excel files. (See Also: How Do I Convert An Excel File To Google Sheets)
How To Open Xlsm File In Google Sheets
Microsoft Excel is a popular spreadsheet program used for data analysis, visualization, and creating reports. However, not everyone has access to Microsoft Office, and some people prefer using Google Sheets for its collaboration and sharing capabilities. If you have an Xlsm file, which is an Excel file with macros, you might be wondering if it’s possible to open it in Google Sheets. While Google Sheets doesn’t support macros, there are still ways to open and view the data in an Xlsm file.
Convert Xlsm File to Google Sheets Format
One way to open an Xlsm file in Google Sheets is to convert it to a format that Google Sheets supports. Here are the steps to do so:
- Open Microsoft Excel and open the Xlsm file you want to convert.
- Click on the “File” tab and select “Save As.”
- Choose a location to save the file and select a file format that Google Sheets supports, such as .xlsx or .csv.
- Click “Save” and close the file in Excel.
- Open Google Drive and click on the “New” button.
- Select “File upload” and choose the converted Xlsm file from your computer.
- Once the file is uploaded, right-click on it and select “Open with” > “Google Sheets.”
By converting the Xlsm file to a format that Google Sheets supports, you can view and edit the data in the file. However, keep in mind that any macros or VBA code in the file will not be preserved in the conversion process.
Use a Third-Party Converter Tool
If you don’t have access to Microsoft Excel or don’t want to convert the file manually, you can use a third-party converter tool. There are several online tools that allow you to convert Xlsm files to Google Sheets format. Here are the steps to use one:
- Find a reputable online converter tool that supports Xlsm to Google Sheets conversion.
- Upload the Xlsm file to the converter tool.
- Follow the instructions provided by the tool to convert the file.
- Once the conversion is complete, download the file and save it to your Google Drive.
- Right-click on the file in Google Drive and select “Open with” > “Google Sheets.”
Using a third-party converter tool can save you time and effort, but be sure to choose a reputable tool to ensure the security of your data.
View Xlsm File in Google Sheets as a Static Document
If you don’t need to edit the data in the Xlsm file, you can simply view it as a static document in Google Sheets. Here are the steps to do so: (See Also: How Do You Do Sum On Google Sheets)
- Open Google Drive and click on the “New” button.
- Select “File upload” and choose the Xlsm file from your computer.
- Once the file is uploaded, right-click on it and select “Open with” > “Google Sheets.”
- In Google Sheets, click on “File” > “Download” > “Microsoft Excel (.xlsx).”
- Open the downloaded file in Microsoft Excel and view the data.
While this method won’t allow you to edit the data in the file, it does allow you to view it in a spreadsheet format without having to purchase Microsoft Office.
Recap
In this article, we discussed how to open Xlsm files in Google Sheets. While Google Sheets doesn’t support macros, there are still ways to view and edit the data in an Xlsm file. You can convert the file to a format that Google Sheets supports, use a third-party converter tool, or view the file as a static document. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can access the data in your Xlsm files without having to use Microsoft Excel.
FAQs: How to Open Xlsm File in Google Sheets
1. What is an Xlsm file and why can’t I open it in Google Sheets?
An Xlsm file is a type of Microsoft Excel file that contains macros, or automated scripts that can perform specific tasks. Google Sheets does not support Xlsm files due to security reasons, as macros can potentially contain harmful code.
2. How can I convert an Xlsm file to a format that can be opened in Google Sheets?
You can convert an Xlsm file to a Google Sheets file (.gsheet) or another format that Google Sheets supports, such as .xlsx or .csv. To do this, open the Xlsm file in Microsoft Excel and save it as a different file type. Note that this will remove any macros from the file.
3. Can I open an Xlsm file in Google Sheets using a third-party tool?
Yes, there are third-party tools available that can help you open Xlsm files in Google Sheets. These tools typically involve uploading the Xlsm file to a third-party server, where it is converted to a format that can be opened in Google Sheets. However, keep in mind that using third-party tools may involve security risks and may not be as reliable as using a trusted conversion method.
4. What are my alternatives if I can’t open an Xlsm file in Google Sheets?
If you can’t open an Xlsm file in Google Sheets, you can consider using other spreadsheet software that supports Xlsm files, such as Microsoft Excel or LibreOffice Calc. Alternatively, you can use a text editor or programming language to view and edit the raw data in the Xlsm file.
5. Can I use Google Apps Script to open an Xlsm file in Google Sheets?
No, Google Apps Script does not support opening Xlsm files directly. However, you can use Google Apps Script to automate the conversion of Xlsm files to a format that can be opened in Google Sheets, such as .xlsx or .csv. You can also use Google Apps Script to create and run macros within Google Sheets, although these will not be compatible with Xlsm macros.