View an XML file without being an expert

View an XML file without being an expert
—by Kara Soos

Application:
Microsoft Excel 2002/2003
Operating Systems:
Microsoft Windows, Macintosh


Recently, I received an inventory list from a client, but was frustrated to see that the file had an .xml file extension. I’ve heard a bit about Excel 2003’s enhanced XML abilities, but I don’t have time to learn XML. I only need to read this file. Can you help?

Joshua Thompson

Many people are intimidated by the thought of learning XML, or simply don’t feel they have the time, as in Mr. Thompson’s case. Fortunately, Excel allows you to view an XML file as a read-only workbook for the convenience of those who don’t want to take the time to fully understand XML. There are a few formatting quirks in an XML read-only worksheet, but if you’re only concerned with the file’s contents, it shouldn’t be a problem. And, you can utilize this in Excel 2002 as well, sin