Final answer:
There are two main ways to import data into Excel: using the built-in import functionality for straightforward data import from files or databases, and using the 'Get & Transform' feature for more advanced data manipulation. Another method is downloading an XLS file directly from a website.
Step-by-step explanation:
To import data directly into Excel, you can follow two main methods. The first way is to use the import functionality built into Excel, where you can import data from various sources like other Excel files, CSV files, and database connections. The second main way to import data into Excel is by using the 'Get & Transform' feature (previously known as Power Query) that allows more advanced data manipulation and importing from an even wider array of sources.
The basic method of importing is straightforward and typically involves going to the 'Data' tab, selecting 'Get Data', and then choosing your source such as 'From File' or 'From Database'. After selecting your source and the specific data you want to import, Excel guides you through the rest of the import process.
For the 'Get & Transform' feature, navigate to the 'Data' tab, then 'Get & Transform Data' group where you can select 'Get Data' to access the advanced data import and transformation capabilities. This tool is especially useful when you need to combine data from different sources or need to perform more complex data transformations before importing.
Additionally, you can also import data by downloading it as an Excel file directly. Some websites offer data tables with an XLS download option. By selecting this, you allow for the data to be directly downloaded into Excel, ready for use.