If you import data into Excel then you will have probably used Excel’s CSV import routines and have no doubt got frustrated that Excel’s default is to see all the number columns as numbers and format them accordingly. Sounds like a reasonable idea but if you are importing data where a zero at the front is important then it is not sure a great idea.
Take for example Zip Codes. 07047 is different to 7047 and that leading zero is important.
Excel CSV import routine is explained in this video and the all important step where most of us click next is fully explained. It is an important step, and although not a sexy topic it is one that is vitally important if you are importing data into Excel.
