Convert an Excel file into a list in Microsoft Lists

An Excel file updated by five colleagues at once soon goes wrong: mixed-up versions, overwritten rows, no notifications. Convert your data into a list in Microsoft Lists instead. This article shows how to import an Excel table in a few steps.

Prepare in Excel

1. Make sure your data is in one block, with a single row of column names at the top.
2. Select the data and press Ctrl + T to format it as a table. Lists can only import tables.
3. Remove empty rows and merged cells.
4. Save the file.

Import into Lists

1. Open Lists and select New list > From Excel.
2. Upload the file, or pick one already in OneDrive or SharePoint.
3. Choose the right table if the file has several.
4. Check each column's type: text, number, date, choice or person. Adjust where needed.
5. Name the list and select Create.

Afterwards

• The Excel file stays unchanged. Work only in the list from now on, so you don't have two versions.
• Columns with a limited set of values (status, department) are best set to Choice, so everyone uses the same values.
• Still need an overview in Excel? Choose Export > Export to Excel in the list.

Tips

• A list can hold a lot of rows, but create filtered views so each view stays manageable.
• View tasks as a board: read board view.
• New to Lists? Read Microsoft Lists in 3 steps. More Excel tips: 10 Excel tips.

Read also

Get started with Microsoft Lists in 3 steps
Create a kanban board with board view in Microsoft Lists
10 Excel tips everyone should know

Nederlandstalige versie: Een Excel-bestand omzetten naar een lijst in Microsoft Lists

---

More in English