Saving and file formats (xlsx, csv) in Excel - Cheat Sheet & Quick Revision

Recall & Review

beginner

What does the file extension .xlsx stand for in Excel?

.xlsx is the default file format for Excel workbooks. It stands for Excel Spreadsheet and stores data, formulas, formatting, and multiple sheets in a compressed file.

beginner

What is a CSV file and when would you use it?

A CSV (Comma-Separated Values) file stores data as plain text with values separated by commas. It is used to share simple data between programs because it is lightweight and easy to open in many applications.

beginner

True or False: Saving an Excel file as CSV keeps all formulas and formatting intact.

False. When saving as CSV, only the raw data is saved. Formulas, formatting, and multiple sheets are lost because CSV is a plain text format.

beginner

Why might you choose to save a file as .xlsx instead of .csv?

Save as .xlsx to keep formulas, formatting, charts, and multiple sheets. .csv only saves plain data without these features.

beginner

How do you save an Excel workbook as a CSV file?

Go to File > Save As, choose the location, then select CSV (Comma delimited) (*.csv) from the file type dropdown, and click Save.

Which file format keeps Excel formulas when saving?

A .txt

B .csv

C .xlsx

D .pdf

.xlsx keeps formulas. CSV and TXT save only raw data. PDF is for viewing, not editing formulas.

What happens to formatting when saving as CSV?

A Formatting is lost

B Formatting is saved

C Only colors are saved

D Only fonts are saved

CSV files do not save any formatting; only plain data is saved.

Which format is best for sharing simple data with other programs?

A .csv

B .pptx

C .docx

D .xlsx

CSV is widely supported and easy to open in many programs, making it ideal for simple data sharing.

If your workbook has multiple sheets, which format keeps all sheets when saving?

A .csv

B .txt

C .html

D .xlsx

.xlsx supports multiple sheets. CSV saves only one sheet at a time.

Where do you select the file format when saving in Excel?

A File > Open

B File > Save As

C Home > Clipboard

D Insert > Table

You choose the file format under File > Save As.

Explain the differences between saving an Excel file as .xlsx and .csv.

Think about what each format can and cannot keep.

Describe the steps to save an Excel workbook as a CSV file.

Focus on the menu path and file type selection.