Combining/merging files

[drose6]

I am a new Excel user who was asked to do the inventory for my company.
The same template file was set up on 4 different computers and all the
data was entered. All the worksheets have the same headings. I would
like to merge all the data into one worksheet which would then contain
all the inventory for the company. Beginning next year, all new
equpment would be added to the worksheet as it arrives.

How do I merge these 4 files into one worksheet? I'd appreciate any
help that I get.

Thank you.

DRose

 

[Bob Greenblatt]

I am a new Excel user who was asked to do the inventory for my company.
The same template file was set up on 4 different computers and all the
data was entered. All the worksheets have the same headings. I would
like to merge all the data into one worksheet which would then contain
all the inventory for the company. Beginning next year, all new
equpment would be added to the worksheet as it arrives.

How do I merge these 4 files into one worksheet? I'd appreciate any
help that I get.

Thank you.

DRose

The easiest way to do this is to open all the files. Then pick the one
containing the most data. For each of the others, copy (or cut) the
inventory data and paste it to the bottom of the first. Then save that file
under a new name and it will be come your 'master' inventory file.

 

[Joe]

The easiest way to do this is to open all the files. Then pick the one
containing the most data. For each of the others, copy (or cut) the
inventory data and paste it to the bottom of the first. Then save that file
under a new name and it will be come your 'master' inventory file.

Bob,

I agree with your reply with one additional caveat. It would be very
prudent to both back up and print the 4 individual spreadsheets before
beginning the merge process. As one who has taken company inventories I
know it is wise to be able to look back into the original documents
until the final document is put to bed.

-Joe

 

[drose6]

Hi Joe,

Thanks for the addendum. It is wise to follow good computing practices
such as you recommend.

Doreen

 

[Mark Perka-MS]

Another way to possibly achieve what it sounds like you're trying to do
would be with an Excel feature
called 'consolidation' -- you should be able to find good examples of
consolidation within the online help.