Bringing values from one excel to another pre-formatted excel

[Dheeru28]

Hi everyone,

I have two files: A and B

I have to perform some calculations in A and then bring some values from A into a specific range of cells in B.

B is pre-formatted so that once the values are brought in from file A in those specific cells, it draws up a chart.

So, my question is- is it possible to automate this work through Alteryx?

[Prometheus · Accepted solution]

@Dheeru28 Yes. You can specify the range in your Output Data tool. Here's a thread on the topic: https://community.alteryx.com/t5/Alteryx-Designer-Desktop-Discussions/Output-to-a-specific-range-in-.... 

[Dheeru28]

@Prometheus
The thread has an example of a vertical (column) range, e.g., A2:A7. But when I tried to do it for a row range, A2:B2:C2:D2:E2 then it's giving an error. Can you please tell me how to write the expression for this?

[caltang]

Change your output to: 

Output Test.xlsx|||'Sheet1$A2:F2

You don't need A2:B2:C2:D2:E2 - You need it from A to F right?

[Dheeru28]

@caltang It's still not working.

Giving the output in the same format as earlier.

[caltang]

Err, that's because you only have one column of data? What are you trying to do? Pivot it?

[Dheeru28]

Not pivot it. Just want to have the output written in a horizontal structure.

Should I do it by first transposing the column into row and then writing it to excel?

[caltang · Accepted solution]

Are you trying to do this?

If yes, then use a Cross-Tab to pivot it. What @Prometheus recommended is for outputting and replacing that segment of an output file based on the ranges you specify.

[Dheeru28]

@caltang Yes, this is how I wanted it. I'm able to write the output now in the desired format and specific range.

Just one more thing, My excel file is pre-populated and the specific range(where I want to write the output) is pre-formatted. So, Can I write this output in a way that doesn't change the value of any other cell and also doesn't change the formatting of the specified range?

[caltang]

You can lock the value - and when you output, choose the option to overwrite sheet or range. Make sure to specify your range!