Why is my CSV file messed up?

Hello 👋

Say you download a CSV file and your data is not formatted in a readable manner.

It can be frustrating, especially when it you need to execute the same steps all over again. Data that must be on separate columns shares the same space... And in certain cases, the data format is compromised and you need to employ other methods to obtain the desired result.

I've been there. The time I spent brushing up the file could have been used in other ways. 🕛🔵🕧

Until one day when I discovered that Excel actually has a plenty of configurable options! 😀

In your wonderful Excel file, go to
File-> Options-> Advanced and make sure the box next to the Use system separators option is unticked, just like in the image below:

Let's see an actual example:

BEFORE (i.e box ticked)

AFTER (i.e box unticked)

‼️After you applied the settings, the effect applies to the next CSV file created/ downloaded.

Almost forgot! Be sure that the Regional Settings have the format below:

Of course, this shouldn't affect your applications/ products- so take this into consideration.

And one last thing: make sure you save someone by sharing this article with them.

Do you know another method? Let me know in the comments!