What is CSV file format?
A CSV (comma separated values) file format is a type of plain text data file format that stores tabular data (numbers and text) in plain-text form. Each line of the file is a data record, and each record consists of one or more fields, separated by commas. CSV files are used to store information in a tabular format and are often used for importing and exporting data between different applications.
CSV File Info
If you are trying to share information from a CSV file, you can do so by exporting the file as a PDF, HTML, or other document format. You can also upload the file to a cloud storage service like Dropbox or Google Drive, and then share a link to the file with others. Additionally, you can copy and paste the contents of the CSV file into an email or other document to share it with others.
What does CSV file format stand for?
CSV stands for Comma Separated Values.
Software, Tool, or Editor used to Create CSV File
Many software applications, tools, and editors can be used to create a CSV file, including Microsoft Excel, Apple Numbers, Apache OpenOffice Calc, Google Sheets, Notepad++, TextEdit, and Sublime Text.
Software, Tool, or Editor used to Open CSV File
There are many software, tools, and editors that can be used to open a CSV file. Some popular options include Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, Notepad (Windows) or TextEdit (Mac), Apache OpenOffice Calc, and Apple Numbers.
License Type of CSV File Format
The CSV file format is an open standard, and it is not subject to any license. It is owned by the public, and it follows the same rules as any other open standard.
Usage of CSV File Format
- Storing tabular data sets
- Transferring data between applications
- Importing and exporting data from databases
- Analyzing data in spreadsheet programs
- Automating data entry
- Sharing data between multiple users
Strucutre of a CSV File Extension
- Comma (,) as the delimiter to separate data fields.
- Line breaks (\n) to indicate the end of a record.
- Text delimiter (”) to enclose data fields that contain comma.
- Header row containing field names.
- Optionally, columns may be ordered by field name.
- Optionally, a text qualifier (e.g. single or double quotes) can be used to enclose all fields.
History of CSV Format
The CSV (Comma Separated Values) file format was first developed in the early 1970s by the International Business Machines (IBM) corporation. The original purpose of the format was to allow for easier data exchange between disparate databases. CSV files are essentially plain text files that contain rows of data, with each row being separated by commas.
The CSV format was initially used to exchange data between mainframe computers and the IBM PC. In the mid-1980s, the CSV format was adopted by other computer platforms such as the Apple Macintosh and the Microsoft Windows operating system.
In the 1990s, the CSV format became widely used for exchanging data between different applications and operating systems.
Future of CSV Format
CSV (comma-separated values) file format is likely to remain a popular method for data storage and transfer for some time, due to its simple structure and compatibility with many different programs and platforms. CSV files are relatively small and easy to work with, and they are supported by a wide variety of software and programs.
In the future, CSV files may become more advanced, incorporating new features such as encryption, metadata, and support for non-text data such as images or audio files. As more organizations move to cloud-based storage, the CSV format may also begin to evolve to better accommodate these solutions.
Operations Performed on CSV File Format
To view and perform all the operations on CSV files, Check these free online CSV web apps
