Everyone desires to convert table data from a PDF to an Excel sheet without losing formatting when making reports, analyzing, or manipulating data. However, only some know how to export table data while keeping the formatting intact. If you know how to do it, you will probably read this post to learn more. However, if you are among those still looking for the best techniques and methods to export table data without losing data, you are in luck.
This guide will give you step-by-step instructions on extracting tables from a PDF file, editing them in Excel, and much more. We will introduce you to online tools, paid software, and manual steps.
Also Read: How To Email Excel File As PDF
Why Should You Convert PDF To Excel
1. Data Manipulation: Excel allows you to alter table data. Unlike PDF, in Excel, you can quickly sort, filter, and analyze data to perform calculations and generate reports.
2. Editing: PDF files are often static and difficult to edit. Converting to Excel lets you modify data as needed.
3. Data Organization: Excel’s grid format helps organize data more effectively, making it easier to visualize and understand.
4. Increased Productivity: Converting data saves time by eliminating the need for manual data entry, reducing the risk of errors.
5. Integration with Other Tools: Excel can integrate with various software applications, enhancing data usage and reporting capabilities.
Use Free Online Tools
We have just the tool for you if you are looking for a free online tool to extract tables from PDF to Excel. However, please note uploading your PDF file to the tool’s server may breach your file’s privacy and security. Here are the steps to use this tool:
1. Navigate to the DocSumo website. (https://www.docsumo.com/free-tools/extract-tables-from-pdf-images)
2. Click on the Upload File button and choose the PDF file with the tables.
3. Wait for the document to load on the DocSumo servers.
4. The Next page will show you the detected tables and a few options.
5. Click on the Download button in the left-bottom corner.
6. Click on Download XLS.
7. An Excel file with the extracted tables will be downloaded in your default downloads folder.
How To Extract Multiple Tables From PDF Into Excel Spreadsheet Format
Method 1: Use an Offine Tool
If the PDF you work with has multiple tables, you can easily extract table data using a dedicated PDF editing tool like Systweak PDF Editor. To use it, follow these steps:
1. Download and Install Systweak PDF Editor using the download button below.
2. Launch the app and click on the Open PDF button.
3. Select the PDF that contains the tables that you wish to extract.
4. Click on the Convert tab.
5. Next, click Convert to and select PDF to Excel from the options.
6. Wait for the convert window to open.
7. Click Method 2 under Convert Method. Check mark the box next to Convert only tabular data.
8. Click Convert to Excel and let the process finish.
9. When completed, you will get a success message.
10. Now, open the Excel sheet, which only has the tabular data. Everything else will not be converted; you will get the exact formatting.
Method 2 – Perform OCR and Convert PDF to Excel to Extract Table
Alternatively, you can perform OCR using Systweak PDF Editor and extract the table. To do so, follow these steps.
1. Launch Systweak PDF Editor.
2. Click the Tools tab at the top.
3. Next, click on the Perform OCR button. When you use the Perform OCR feature for the first time, a few components will be downloaded.
Once that is done, you will get a new dialog box.
4. Click the dropdown menu next to Convert Mode and select Excel.
5. You will get more options, such as Content Options, where you have to click “Only Table.”
6. Finally, click the Perform OCR button and wait for the process to complete.
7. The Excel file with only tables will be created and saved to the chosen folder. Click the Open File Location button to access the newly created Excel file.
Method 3 – Convert A PDF To Excel With All The Contents Without Losing Formatting
You need to follow these steps:
1. Download and install Systweak PDF Editor.
2. Open the app and click on the Open PDF button.
3. Choose the PDF you wish to convert to Excel.
4. Click on the Convert tab at the top.
5. Next, click the Convert To button and choose the PDF to Excel option.
6. Finally, click the Convert To Excel button, and the file will be created in Excel format.
7. Click on the Open button, and the newly created Excel file will open with all the PDF file contents.
Tips to Export Table Data from PDF to Excel
- Select the Right Tool: Choosing the right tool is the key to getting things done. While free tools are available, they do not guarantee data security. Also, sometimes, formatting and structure might be lost. That means less productivity with more time invested.
- Perform OCR for Scanned PDF: If the PDF you have is scanned and image-based, then only Optical Character Recognition tools can help with accurate data extraction and formatting.
- Formatting: After formatting, cross-check the converting sheet to ensure nothing is missing or misplaced. |
- Data Security: Online tools aren’t appropriate when working with documents that have sensitive data. Be cautious and prefer using desktop tools, as you don’t have to upload data to use them.
FAQs
What is the best tool to convert PDF tables to Excel?
When looking for a pocket-friendly option to convert a PDF table to Excel, Systweak PDF Editor is best. However, if you are ready to spend a lot, Adobe Acrobat is there. Both these tools are best for accuracy and ease of use. They offer advanced OCR features.
Can I convert scanned PDFs to Excel?
Yes, if your PDF editing tool has an OCR feature. This feature detects text and tables in scanned images and converts them into editable formats.
Is there a free way to convert PDFs to Excel?
You can use free online tools, but they do not guarantee data security and formatting.
Conclusion
In conclusion, extracting tables from PDF files to Excel is feasible with the right tools and methods. Whether using dedicated software, online converters, or manual techniques, you can efficiently transfer your data for better analysis and management. By following best practices and understanding the limitations of each method, you can streamline your workflow and make the most of your data.
