Easiest way to COMBINE Multiple Excel Files into ONE (Append data from Folder)

Introduction

In this tutorial, you will learn how to efficiently combine multiple Excel files into one using Power Query, also known as Get & Transform. This method is particularly useful when dealing with data spread across various files, allowing for seamless consolidation and analysis without the need for coding. By following these steps, you can easily append data and create comprehensive reports.

Step 1: Setting Up Power Query

1. Open Microsoft Excel.
2. Navigate to the Data tab on the ribbon.
3. Click on Get Data and select From File.
4. Choose From Folder.
5. In the dialog box, browse to and select the folder containing your Excel files.
6. Click OK to establish the connection.

Step 2: Combining Files

1. After connecting to the folder, a preview window will appear.
2. Click on the Combine button.
3. Select Combine & Load to automatically merge the data from all Excel files in the folder.
4. In the Combine Files dialog, you can choose how to combine the data (e.g., using the first file as a template).

Step 3: Filtering and Cleaning Data

1. Once the data is combined, it may include unnecessary rows or columns.
2. Use the Power Query Editor to filter out unwanted data:
   • Uncheck any columns that you do not need.
   • Use the Remove Rows option to eliminate any irrelevant entries.
3. Clean the data as needed by transforming it:
   • Rename columns for clarity.
   • Change data types where necessary (e.g., dates, numbers).

Step 4: Loading Data into Excel

1. After filtering and cleaning the data, click on the Close & Load button in the Power Query Editor.
2. Choose whether to load the data as:
   • A PivotTable: Select PivotTable Report to create a summary report.
   • A Table: Select Table for a straightforward data table in Excel.

Step 5: Creating a PivotTable (Optional)

1. If you chose to load the data as a PivotTable:
   • Select the data fields you want to analyze.
   • Drag and drop fields into the Rows, Columns, and Values areas to structure your report.
2. Use the PivotTable tools to format and analyze your data further.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can easily consolidate multiple Excel files into one workbook using Power Query. This method not only saves time but also ensures that your data analysis process is streamlined and efficient. To enhance your skills further, consider exploring additional features of Power Query or creating more complex PivotTables. Happy analyzing!