Learn how to convert export files with symbols into readable text by correctly importing CSV files in Excel.
Overview
When exporting data in a different language, Excel may display symbols instead of text. This occurs due to encoding mismatches. Follow this guide to convert the file and display the local language correctly.
Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing Export Files
1. Open Excel
- Launch Excel on your computer.
2. Import the CSV File
- Go to the File menu.
- Select Import.
- Choose CSV and click Import.
3. Select the File
- Navigate to the exported file and select it for import.
4. Change the File Origin to UTF-8
- In the import settings, change the File Origin to UTF-8 to ensure proper encoding for local language support.
5. Set the Delimiter
- Change the delimiter to comma.
- Click Next to proceed.
6. Complete the Import
- Click Finish to finalise the import.
7. Save the File
- In the final pop-up, click OK to save the file, or choose a different location before clicking OK.
Outcome
👏 Success! Your file is now displayed correctly in the local language without symbols.
Key Takeaways
- Use UTF-8 encoding to ensure proper text rendering for different languages.
- Adjust the delimiter to comma for correct data formatting in CSV files.
- Excel’s import feature allows for precise control over encoding and delimiter settings.