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How to convert Excel files to Google Sheets

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A MacBook on a table using Google Sheets.
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If you use Google Sheets, then you'll know that it is a versatile tool that can pick up and run with any existing spreadsheets from applications like Microsoft Excel. You can even convert existing Excel spreadsheets to Google Sheet documents. Whether you're looking to using Microsoft Excel or want the improved ease of collaboration and sharing that Sheets offers for that particular spreadsheet, here's how to convert Excel files to Google Sheets in just a few steps.

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Difficulty

Easy

Duration

5 minutes

What You Need

  • Computer, laptop, tablet, or phone with access to Google Sheets

Converting Excel files via Google Sheets’ Import feature

Step 1: Open Google Sheets and create a new spreadsheet file.

Step 2: Select the File menu and choose Import.

The Import button on Google Sheets.
Image used with permission by copyright holder
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Step 3: Select the Upload tab.

The Upload button within the Import feature on Google Sheets.
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Step 4: Drag an Excel file into the window or hit the Select a file from your device button and locate your file.

Step 5: Once the Excel file is selected, choose an import location via the drop-down menu in Sheets.

Choosing an import location for an Excel file on Google Sheets.
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Step 6: Select the Import data button. For demonstration purposes, we’ve used the Create new spreadsheet option, which will display a "file imported successfully" message alongside an Open now hyperlink.

After you’ve selected that Open now link, the Excel spreadsheet and its contents will load onto a Google Sheets file and will also be saved onto your Sheets homepage, as well as Google Drive.

The Import Data button on Google Sheets.
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Converting Excel files via Google Drive

Another way to convert Excel files to Google Sheets is via Google Drive.

Step 1: Open Google Drive. Select the New button and then File upload.

The File upload button on Google Drive.
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Step 2: Select the Excel file from your computer.

Step 3: On your Drive homepage, select the file by right-clicking on it. Choose the Open with field and then Google Sheets.

The Open with button on Google Drive.
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Step 4: Select File > Save as Google Sheets.

The Excel file will now be saved as a Google Sheet spreadsheet and can be accessed via both Google Drive and Google Sheets’ homepages.

The Save with Google Sheets option on Google Sheets for an Excel file.
Image used with permission by copyright holder

For more on how to use Google Sheets, check out our guides on how to search in Google Sheets and how to highlight duplicates.

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Zak Islam
Zak Islam
Former Digital Trends Contributor
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