How to Import / Copy Data From Closed Workbook into Current Workbook?

Importing or copying data from a closed workbook into the current workbook is a valuable capability in Excel that allows you to extract and work with data from various sources. When seeking to collate details from numerous workbooks or access unavailable records, having an effective instrument is invaluable. With that in mind, this article explores various tactics for importing and copying data from closed workbooks into your current Excel file seamlessly. Whether your source files are open or closed, these methods empower you to transfer information efficiently. By utilizing these techniques, you can enhance your data manipulation and analysis capabilities in Excel. Whether you're a business professional handling financial data, a researcher working with large datasets, or simply someone looking to streamline their data management tasks, knowing how to import or copy data from closed workbooks opens up a world of possibilities.

We will explore various approaches, including leveraging Excel's External Data Source feature, utilizing the INDIRECT function to retrieve data dynamically, and harnessing the power of Power Query (Get & Transform Data) to extract and transform data from closed workbooks. Every approach boasts distinct perks and has the potential to be personalized in order to fit your precise needs. By mastering these techniques, you will gain greater flexibility and efficiency in your Excel workflows. Say goodbye to manual data entry and tedious copy− pasting between workbooks. With the ability to import or copy data from closed workbooks, you can access and integrate information seamlessly, saving time and ensuring data accuracy in your Excel projects.

Approaches

• Approach 1 − Using Power Query (Get & Transform Data)

• Approach 2 − Using the External Data Source feature

• Approach 3 − Using the INDIRECT function

Using Power Query (Get & Transform Data)

In Excel, you can import or copy data from a closed workbook into your current workbook using the external reference function. This method involves typing the file path and cell reference of the closed workbook directly into a formula in your current workbook. The formula retrieves the data from the specified cell or range in the closed workbook and displays it in your current workbook. This approach allows you to establish a connection between workbooks and retrieve data dynamically when the closed workbook is updated.

• Step 1 − To begin, kindly open the Excel workbook in which you intend to import or copy the data.

• Step 2 − If you wish to utilize the data features within Excel, please direct yourself to the "Data" tab situated on your Excel ribbon.

• Step 3 − Select the Get dat then go to From File And from the list select the From Excell Workbook option.

• Step 4 − Browse and locate the closed workbook from which you want to import or copy the data.

• Step 5 − Select the sheet which you want to import and click on load button you can import the multiple data at same time.

• Step 6 − Repeat the process to add the 'Expected Case' and 'Best Case' scenarios with quantities 100 and 120 respectively.

• Step 7 − You will get your sheet on current Worksheet.

Using External Data Source Feature

One effective method to import or copy data from a closed workbook into the current workbook in Excel is by utilizing the External Data Source feature. Accessing data stored in closed workbooks and easily merging it with your existing Excel files was made simpler via this particular function which guarantees ease of use for all users alike.

• Step 1 −Select the data tab and in that select the from test/csv option.

• Step 2 − It open new window from where you choose your file and select the import option.

• Step 3 − Select the data From Data Type Detection for reqired data and click on load button.

• Step 4 − Your data will be loaded in another sheet in same workbook.

Using the INDIRECT Function

The second method involves using the INDIRECT function to import or copy data from a closed workbook into the current workbook. By utilizing this function, you can dynamically reference cells or ranges from the closed workbook and retrieve the data into your current worksheet. The INDIRECT function allows you to create flexible formulas that can adapt to changes in the source workbook. This method is particularly useful when you want to selectively import specific data based on criteria or conditions within your current workbook.

• Step 1 − To begin, kindly open the desired workbook in which you intend to replicate the information.

• Step 2 − Please identify the file path and name of the closed workbook.

• Step 3 − Before proceeding with copying data. Ensure that you have selected either a new sheet or an existing one within your current workbook. With that in mind. Proceed by clicking on the designated cell where you wish to replicate your information.

• Step 4 − In the formula bar, enter the following formula −

  =INDEX('[ClosedWorkbook.xlsx]Sheet1'!$A:$Z, ROW(), COLUMN())

  Replace "ClosedWorkbook.xlsx" with the actual file name of the closed workbook, and adjust the sheet name and range ($A:$Z) as needed.

• Step 5 − Press Enter to copy the formula. It will retrieve the value from the corresponding cell in the closed workbook

Note − Drag the formula across and down to copy the data from the closed workbook into the current workbook.

Please ensure that the closed workbook is located in a known file path, and you have read access to that file. Also, note that this method retrieves static data, and any changes in the closed workbook will not automatically update in the current workbook.

Conclusion

Importing or copying data from a closed workbook into the current workbook expands your data manipulation capabilities in Excel This article presents various techniques to carry out a task, namely the usage of the External Data Source feature, the INDIRECT function, and Power Query. Depending on your specific needs, you can select the most fitting method and optimize Excel's potential to efficiently handle data from several sources − be it even when relevant workbooks are shut.