One way to store data in a structured format is through CSV (Comma Separated Values) files.
These files contain rows and columns of data that can be easily read by humans and machines alike. However, when working on a project, it is not uncommon to have multiple CSV files that need to be combined into one for easier analysis.
This article will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to quickly and efficiently combine CSV files into one using various methods.
Method 1: Using Command Line
The command line interface (CLI) is a powerful tool for navigating and manipulating files and folders on your computer. With a few simple commands, you can combine multiple CSV files into one without the need for any additional software.
Open Command Prompt or Terminal
First, open the command line interface on your computer. This will vary depending on your operating system, but it is usually found under Applications or Programs in your Start menu or Finder.
Navigate to the Folder Containing CSV Files
Use the ‘cd’ (change directory) command to navigate to the folder that contains the CSV files you want to combine. For example, if your files are located in a folder called ‘Data’, type ‘cd Data’ in the command prompt and press Enter.
Combine CSV Files
Once you are in the correct folder, use the ‘copy’ command to combine all the files into one. For example, if your files are named File1.csv, File2.csv and File3.csv, you will type ‘copy *.csv CombinedFile.csv’ and press Enter. This will create a new file called CombinedFile.csv that contains all the data from the three original files.
Method 2: Using Excel
If you prefer working with spreadsheets instead of using command line commands, you can also combine CSV files using Microsoft Excel.
Open Excel and Create a New Workbook
Open Microsoft Excel on your computer and create a new workbook.
Import CSV Files into Worksheet
Go to the Data tab and click on “From Text/CSV”. Select all the files you want to combine and click on “Open”. This will import all the data from the files into separate worksheets in your workbook.
Merge Worksheets
In merging CSV files, go to the Data tab again and select “Consolidate” under Data Tools. In the Consolidate window, select all the worksheets that contain your CSV data and check off “Top row” and “Left column” if applicable. Then, choose a cell in your new worksheet where you want to insert the combined data and click “OK”.
Method 3: Using Online Tools
If you don’t have access to Excel or prefer not to install any software on your computer, there are also online tools available to combine CSV files.
Find an Online Tool
There are many free online tools that allow you to combine multiple CSV files. Some popular options include MergeCSV, DataMerging, Read CSV file C# and CombineCSV.
Upload CSV Files
Once you have chosen a tool, simply follow the instructions on the website to upload your CSV files.
Download Combined File
After the tool has finished combining CSV files, you can either view the combined data on the website or download it onto your computer.
Explore How to Combine CSV Files Quickly and Efficiently
Combining multiple CSV files into one is a simple task with various methods available depending on your preference.
Whether using command line commands, Excel or online tools, you now have the knowledge and skills to efficiently combine CSV files for your data analysis needs. If you want to explore the best topics, we’ve got you covered. Check out some of our other blogs today!