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laniepip's avatar
laniepip
Copper Contributor
Sep 12, 2023

Extra column added when pasting into Excel

Novice user here.  I am copying from a 3rd party application and pasting into Excel and have been doing this for years.  Recently, an extra column is being added when I paste into a workbook with exi...
excel
NikolinoDE's avatar
NikolinoDE
Platinum Contributor
Sep 12, 2023

laniepip 

The issue you are experiencing where an extra column is being added when pasting data into Excel could be related to a few different factors, including formatting or data in the source application, the way Excel interprets the data, or any possible issues with Excel itself. Here are some steps you can take to troubleshoot and potentially resolve the problem:

  1. Check Data in the Source Application:
    • Verify that the data in the source application is clean and does not contain any unexpected formatting or extra columns.
    • Make sure there are no hidden columns or cells in the source data.
  2. Copy Data as Values:
    • When pasting data into Excel, try pasting it as values to avoid bringing in any formatting or hidden content from the source. You can do this by right-clicking the target cell, selecting "Paste Special," and choosing "Values."
  3. Check Excel Settings:
    • Sometimes, Excel may try to automatically format the pasted data based on the content. Check your Excel settings to ensure that any automatic formatting options are disabled, especially for pasted data.
  4. Paste into a Blank Workbook:
    • As you mentioned, pasting into a blank workbook and then copying from there to your target workbook seems to work as a workaround. If this method consistently works, you can continue using it.
  5. Verify the Source Data Type:
    • Ensure that the data type in the source application matches the data type you expect in Excel. For example, if you are copying numerical data, make sure it is recognized as numbers in the source.
  6. Update or Repair Excel:
    • Ensure that you are using the latest version of Excel, as software updates can sometimes resolve such issues. Alternatively, you can try repairing your Excel installation if you suspect there might be a problem with the application itself.
  7. Contact the Third-Party Application Support:
    • If the issue persists and you suspect it is related to the third-party application, consider reaching out to their support or documentation to see if there are any known issues or recommended practices for copying data into Excel.
  8. Test on a Different Computer:
    • If possible, try copying the data into Excel on a different computer to see if the issue persists. This can help determine if the problem is specific to your Excel installation or computer.
  9. Check for Macros or Add-Ins:
    • Review if there are any macros or Excel add-ins that might be affecting the paste behavior. Sometimes, add-ins can modify how data is pasted into Excel.

By following these steps and isolating the source of the issue, you should be able to either resolve the problem or at least identify where it is originating (source application, Excel settings, etc.), which can be helpful in seeking further assistance or workaround strategies.

If  none of this steps help, please read this link, to give more information about your Excel, OS, project, etc. Link: Welcome to your Excel discussion space!

The text and steps were edited with the help of AI.

 

My answers are voluntary and without guarantee!

 

Hope this will help you.

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