How do you open XLS files in Google Sheets?
XLS is the legacy Excel binary workbook format. Upload to Google Drive and open with Google Sheets, or convert to XLSX first for fewer import surprises. Very old macros and features do not transfer; rebuild automation in Apps Script.
When to use it
Use Drive import when you inherit .xls files from older Excel versions.
When to skip it
Skip repeated conversion when the owner can export XLSX or CSV instead.
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Excel XLSX and Google Sheets
XLSX is the modern Excel workbook format. Google Sheets opens it through File > Import or by uploading to Drive and choosing Open with Google Sheets. Most values, tabs, and basic formatting convert cleanly, but some Excel-only features need a workaround or a stay-in-Excel decision.
Read guide →importing data into Sheets
Importing means pulling external data into a spreadsheet tab: from a file upload, another Google Sheet, a published CSV URL, or a function like IMPORTRANGE. The import dialog controls separator, locale, and whether new rows replace or append existing data.
Read guide →exporting data from Sheets
Exporting sends sheet data out of Google Sheets as a file or published feed. File > Download offers CSV, XLSX, PDF, and more for the active tab or workbook. You can also publish a range, share a view-only link, or script exports to Drive and email on a schedule.
Read guide →VBA
Google Sheets automation runs through Google Apps Script (JavaScript) and recorded macros, not VBA. In Excel, VBA is the desktop language behind macros, UserForms, and many add-ins. Rebuild Excel VBA in Apps Script: triggers, custom menus, and batch range updates replace most workbook automation.
Read guide →Visual Basic
Visual Basic is the language family behind Excel VBA. Google Sheets does not run VB or VBA; the closest equivalent is Google Apps Script, which uses modern JavaScript syntax. Recorded macros in Sheets generate Apps Script you can extend, similar to how Excel's macro recorder outputs VBA.
Read guide →Google Apps Script
Apps Script is Google's JavaScript platform for automating Sheets and other Workspace apps. From a spreadsheet you can open Extensions > Apps Script to write code that reads cells, sends email, builds menus, and runs on triggers. It goes beyond formulas when you need custom workflows tied to your file.
Read guide →Done reading about XLS?
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