Convert OneNote to Excel Format: Direct Data Conversion
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Written By
Aaradhya Jain -
Approved By
Shivam Rathore -
Updated on
February 24th, 2026 - Read Time
3 minutes
User Query: I have important tables and structured notes saved in OneNote, and I want to convert OneNote to XLSX format. I need the data in Excel so I can analyze it, edit it easily, and share it with my team. What is the correct way to perform the conversion without losing formatting?
Introduction: OneNote is a powerful note-taking application used to store ideas, project details, tables, and research. However, OneNote files are not designed for data analysis or spreadsheet operations. Besides that, XLSX is the default file format of Excel and is widely used for managing structured data, calculations, and reporting. When you convert OneNote to Excel, you can organize your notes into rows and columns, apply formulas, and manage information more efficiently. This guide explains both the manual method and a professional DRS OneNote Converter Tool to help you convert files safely and accurately.
Why Export OneNote to Excel?
- Excel makes data easier to organize and analyze.
- The XLSX format allows users to apply formulas and filters.
- It helps create reports from structured notes.
- Excel files are easier to share in business environments.
- The XLSX format is supported on almost every system.
- Moreover, it helps in maintaining a structured backup of important notes.
Understanding OneNote and XLSX Format
- OneNote File Format: OneNote stores notes in notebooks, sections, and pages. These notes may include: Tables, Text content, Images, Lists, and Research notes. However, OneNote is not designed for spreadsheet-based data processing.
- XLSX File Format: XLSX is a spreadsheet format used by Excel. It allows users to: Store data in rows and columns, perform calculations, create reports and charts, and organize structured information.
Can You Directly Convert OneNote Data to Excel XLS?
Short answer: Not directly. OneNote does not provide a direct “Export to XLSX” option. You must first extract the data and then save it in Excel format. This can be done manually for small data or by using a professional tool for bulk conversion.
Manual Method to Convert OneNote to XLSX
- Firstly, open OneNote on your system.
- Now, open the page that contains the data you want to convert.
- Then, select the table and press Ctrl + C to copy the selected content.
- After that, open Microsoft Excel and select Ctrl + V to paste the data into Excel.
- Click on File and choose Save As. Press Excel Workbook as the file format.
- In the end, click Save, and your OneNote data will now be saved in XLSX format.
Limitations of the Manual Method
- There is a need to copy OneNote data manually.
- It takes a lot of time for multiple files.
- The formatting may change during copying.
- Attachments and images are not properly exported.
- Moreover, this method is not suitable for bulk conversion.
Professional Tool to Convert OneNote to XLSX
The DRS OneNote to XLSX Converter Tool is a reliable and 100% accurate solution. It allows you to convert a single or multiple OneNote emails at once. Maintains the original data formatting and structure. This tool has a simple interface, which means non-tech users can easily use it without needing skills. Offer several advanced features, like Preview, Remove Duplicates, Date Filter, and more. Apart from that, you can convert OneNote to PDF and other formats, including File Formats and Email Clients.
Simple Steps to Convert OneNote File to Excel Spreadsheet
- Download and install the DRS OneNote to Excel Converter.
- Choose “Select Files” or “Select Folder” to add your OneNote files.
- You can preview and select the OneNote emails to convert.
- Next, pick Excel (XLS) as the Saving Format from the given list.
- Lastly, use advanced features as per your needs. Click Convert.
Key Features of the DRS OneNote Converter Tool
- This tool supports bulk OneNote files with 100% accuracy.
- A free version of this utility is available to evaluate its features.
- This tool is highly compatible with all Windows and Mac versions.
- Additionally, ensures safe and accurate conversion.
Practical Situations Where Converting OneNote to XLSX Is Useful
Office Reporting and Record Preparation
An employee maintains weekly work updates and task lists in OneNote. Before submitting the monthly report, they convert the notes into XLSX format. This helps them arrange the data into proper rows and columns, which makes it easier for managers to review and understand progress.
Research and Data Collection
A researcher collects survey responses and observations in OneNote during fieldwork. Later, they convert the notes into Excel format so they can sort the data, compare results, and prepare accurate findings.
Long-Term Data Storage and Access
An organization keeps important operational notes in OneNote. To ensure easy access in the future, they convert the files into XLSX format. This allows them to open and review the data even without using OneNote.
Financial and Expense Tracking
A small business owner records daily expenses and payment details in OneNote. After converting the notes into Excel, they can calculate totals, monitor spending, and prepare financial summaries.
Conclusion
In this technical blog, we explored several methods to convert OneNote to XLSX. The manual method works for small amounts of data but requires time and effort. It also does not support bulk conversion. A professional solution like the DRS Softech OneNote Converter Tool makes the process faster, safer, and more accurate. It allows users to convert multiple files at once while maintaining data integrity. You can try the free version to understand its features and performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ans: Yes, you can automate the conversion by using a professional DRS OneNote Converter Tool. This software allows you to convert single or multiple OneNote files into XLSX format without manual copying. It saves time, reduces effort, and ensures accurate data conversion with proper formatting.
Ans: You can convert OneNote to Excel using two methods:
1. Manual Method: Open OneNote, copy the required table or content, paste it into Microsoft Excel, and save the file in XLSX format.
2. Professional Method: Use the DRS OneNote to Excel Converter Tool. Add your OneNote files, select XLSX as the output format, and start the conversion.
Ans: Handwritten notes cannot be directly converted into Excel format because Excel only supports structured data. First, you must convert handwritten notes into editable text using OCR (Optical Character Recognition). After that, you can export the text into Excel format. Some professional tools provide support for extracting readable content.
Ans: A reliable solution like the DRS Softech OneNote Converter Tool is one of the best options. It supports bulk conversion, preserves original formatting, and allows users to convert OneNote files into Excel and other formats
About The Author:
I, Aaradhya Jain, a technical content writer at DRS Solutions, specializes in delivering clear, practical guides on data management, migration, and recovery tools. With a detail-oriented and user-first approach mindset, I transform complex processes into actionable insights for IT professionals and decision-makers.
