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What is CSV?

By Shelley Elmblad, About.com

Question: What is CSV?
Answer: CSV stands for Comma Separated Values.

CSV is a common file type used to import data from one software application to another, with commas separating the values in each field. CSV is often used to transfer data between databases or spreadsheet tables, and most financial software is a collection of databases or spreadsheets, making CSV a common method of transferring data between financial software or between financial software and spreadsheets or databases.

Most financial software will export CSV data to be used in another file or software application, and some financial software is capable of importing CSV data. If it is important that you be able to work with CSV data from financial software, be sure to find out if the software will work with the CSV format by reading the documentation at the marketing or developer's web site. If you do not see any mention of CSV in the documentation, contact software support by email or phone.

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