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How to Copy File Names in Excel from a Folder? (3 Easy Methods)

November 9, 2023
85.3K Views

The copy file name option in Excel is a useful way to display chunk of files in excel or make changes to the name of a file. If you want to copy large number of file names into excel, it will be a hectic and tedious task if you type them manually. In this article we will show you how copy file names in excel in easy and simple way. There are different methods to do it. Let us take you through to each one by one.

Tips that are provided in this article are compatible with versions 2010/2013/2016.

Method 1:USING CTRL+C AND CTRL+V TO COPY FILE NAMES IN EXCEL

If you want to copy the name of a file in Excel, use CTRL+C and CTRL+V. The keyboard shortcut is Ctrl+c, followed by Ctrl+v on your PC or Command+c followed by Command+v on Mac. This works well if you want to paste the copied name into another column or cell of your workbook. For example, if you want to copy a filename from one sheet and paste it into another sheet, then use ctrl-c followed by ctrl-v.

1. Open Excel as well as file explorer Open File Explorer

2. Select the file you want to copy.

3. Press CTRL+C

4. Paste the file by using CTRL+V on Excel sheet.

Remember to save your Excel file after pasting the file names to avoid losing any data in case of unexpected events or system crashes.
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Method 2:USING COPY AS PATH TO COPY FILE NAMES IN EXCEL

Copy as Path is used to create shortcuts on the desktop and in the Start menu. It is very useful when you want to create shortcuts for files or folders that are located at different locations on your computer.. You can also use this to copy file names into excel. To copy a file name in Excel, you can use the following steps:

1. Open Excel. 

2. Navigate to the folder and select the required files.

3. Right click the mouse, a window will pop up. In this window, select copy as path. This copy the path of files to clipboard.

4. Navigate to excel, press the ALT + TAB key, and paste the files.

And that's it , you have copied file names into the excel.

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Method 3:USING IMPORT DATA TO COPYING FILE NAME IN EXCEL

With just a few simple steps, you can import your file names into Excel, eliminating the need for manual entry. This not only saves you valuable time but also ensures accuracy and consistency in your data. Say goodbye to tedious manual copying and hello to streamlined data management. Try using import data to copy file names in Excel today and experience the benefits of increased efficiency and improved workflow.

  1. Click on Data > Import Data > From File > Select data source.

2. Enter the main folder of your files and select the files you want to import

3. Select open and your file name is copied into excel.

Summary

The article discusses different methods to copy file names into Excel, providing tips compatible with versions 2010/2013/2016. Method 1 suggests using Ctrl+C and Ctrl+V to copy and paste file names, while Method 2 explains using "Copy as Path" to copy file names and paste them into Excel. Method 3 introduces the use of the import data feature, which allows for the automated copying of file names into Excel. By following these methods, users can save time, ensure accuracy, and improve data management in Excel.

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Algirdas Jasaitis
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15 years of office industry experience, tech lover and copywriter. Follow me for product reviews, comparisons, and recommendations for new apps and software.