How to Import Data from Different Sources

In this video step, you will discover how to import data from different sources and how to integrate the imported data with the excel data using data models and functions such as VLOOKUP and query tables.

Importing Data

Sometimes you may need to perform data analyses on related data from multiple sources. To import data from another source, you can simply use the Get External Data functionality in the Data section on the Excel ribbon.

Query Tables

Sources such as Access Database can be used as query tables. Query tables are unique in that the data imported into Excel will update as the original source is updated and the Excel data is refreshed.

You can connect your Excel table to the query table by means of a common key between the two tables.

VLOOKUP

VLOOKUP is a function that makes Excel search for a certain value in a column in order to return a value from a different column in the same row.

In its simplest form, the VLOOKUP function says:

=VLOOKUP(What you want to look up, where you want to look for it, the column number in the range containing the value to return, return an Approximate or Exact match – indicated as 1/TRUE, or 0/FALSE).

Data Models

Read these resources for more information on connecting an Access Database to your workbook, importing data into Excel and creating data models and the VLOOKUP function.

• Connect an Access database to your workbook
• Tutorial: Import Data into Excel, and Create a Data Model
• VLOOKUP function

Point of Discussion

While it’s good to explore how to create a multi-table pivot table, let’s take a moment to consider the ‘why’. How does this feature of Excel benefit a business? Take a moment to reflect on key points in this step before answering this question.