Text (number) , then csv save changes it back to number

[7thMonth]

When I save a text col (all the items are numeric) then save as CSV (MS-dos) it converts the items to numbers.

I have a worksheet where I use a Vlookup and IF functions, When IF functions the results are numbers, but in a text form. IN other words the result is coming from a text cell are "123456789000" in it. When I copy the worksheet to a new worksheet everything gets transferred OK. I then save the new worksheet as a csv (ms-dos) file. When I open the CSV file instead of "123456789000' I get "1.2E+11 ([FONT=&quot]scientific notation)[/FONT]. How do get it so save and show the full number, which is really a text.

This is not a column width issue, but some kind of conversion issue.

TIA

 

[Joe4]

When I open the CSV file instead of "123456789000' I get "1.2E+11 (scientific notation).

How exactly are you opening the CSV file?

From my experience, it is saved correctly most of the time. Where people often get into trouble is in opening the CSV file in Excel, which will automatically do a conversion on the data.

Because of this reason, if you REALLY want to see what is in a CSV file without altering it, NEVER use Excel to view. Open it in a Text Editor, like NotePad, WordPad, or your favorite third party text editor.

That will show you what REALLY is in the file, without altering it.