convert xml to csv

How to Convert XML to Tabular Format as CSV? Complete Guide

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This can be a very painful task for many people to convert large XML files into a clean, tabular CSV format. XML files are used for storing structured data mainly because of their flexibility and hierarchical nature. However, when it comes to data analysis, reporting, or integration with tools like Excel or databases, CSV is preferred because of its simplicity and compatibility. If you are looking to convert XML to CSV, you have come to the right place. In this tutorial, I will guide you through the process of converting XML to tabular format as CSV efficiently and without unnecessary complications.

XML – eXtensible Markup Language: A flexible, hierarchical format for storing and transporting structured data. It uses tags to define elements and attributes. That is why they’re highly expressive and capable of describing highly complex, nested relationships in data.

CSV – Comma-Separated Values: A simple, flat file format, storing in plain text tabular data. Each line represents a row, while commas separate values, making this format easy to use with spreadsheets, databases, and data analysis tools.

Why Convert XML to CSV?

Here’s why you might need to convert XML to CSV:

  • Easier Analysis: CSV works seamlessly with tools like Python, R, and Excel.
  • Better Reporting: Most reporting tools prefer CSV for its straightforward structure.
  • Database Integration: Databases like MySQL and PostgreSQL also support bulk imports using CSV.
  • Simplified Data Handling: CSV is light weight and easier to manipulate as compared to XML.

Now that we’ve discussed the importance of converting XML to CSV and the differences between these formats, let’s dive into the manual method for achieving this conversion.

#1. Change XML to CSV using Notepad++

  • Start by opening your XML file and copying all the text.
  • Open Notepad++ on your system. From the Language menu at the top, select XML to enable syntax highlighting for better readability.
  • Go to File > Save As and save the file with an .xml extension.
  • Launch Excel, click on File > Open, and browse to the saved XML file. Make sure to select the “As an XML Table” option when prompted, then click OK.
  • Your XML data will now appear in Excel, ready to be saved as a CSV file.

#2. Convert XML to CSV Via Excel

  • Open a blank Excel sheet
  • The path goes on the Data tab, click on Get Data followed by From File > From XML
  • Browse and upload your XML file. A preview window will pop up
  • Click Load to import the XML content into your excel sheet.
  • Then, go to File > Save As, then to CSV file format, and then save it to access easily.

#3. Change XML to CSV using Python Scripts

  • Open Python on your system and ensure it’s added to your system’s PATH for easy access.
  • Create a Python script to convert XML to CSV. Save it as convert_xml_to_csv.py.
  • Open your terminal or command prompt, navigate to the script’s folder, and run the script using the command python convert_xml_to_csv.py.
  • Once the script runs, you’ll find a new file named output.csv in the same folder, ready to use.

#4. Pro Solution to Bulk Convert XML to CSV with All Attributes & Integrity

You can try BitRecover XML Converter is a powerful tool that carries out the conversion of multiple XML files to CSV in bulk. It provides features and filters, and it is a very efficient and user-friendly application for all users. This simple software is compatible with all Windows versions: Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, etc.

Software Steps to Change XML to CSV

  • Download & install XML to CSV Converter
  • Select the folder option or select files to import your XML files or folders.
  • Choose the folders you have selected and click Next.
  • Click the Filter Options tab and apply any advanced filters if needed.
  • From your Saving Options, select CSV as the output format.
  • Click Browse to select where you want to save the converted CSV files.
  • Click Next to start converting your XML files to CSV.
  • Once done, you will receive a confirmation message. Click OK to complete

Prime Features of Professional Solution

  • XML to CSV Converter allows you to add single files or entire folders with the Select Files and Select Folders options.
  • Use Date Range, To, From, Subject, etc. filters for converting specific data. You can also exclude unwanted or empty folders like Spam, Junk, or Trash.
  • After adding files and folders, all the subfolders and data will appear on the screen. You can quickly select the required data without wasting time.
  • If there is an error in the XML file during conversion, the tool offers an Advanced Mode to scan files deeply and resolve issues.

Key Takeaways

Converting XML to CSV is not that difficult. Whether you use manual methods like Notepad++ and Excel, automate with Python, or professional tools like BitRecover XML Converter, there is a solution for every need. CSV’s simplicity makes it ideal for analysis, reporting, and database integration. Choose the method that best works for you and streamline your data workflow.

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