How to Convert JSON to Excel?

JSON is commonly used in APIs and web applications, but Excel is still the most convenient format for viewing and analyzing data. When you need to convert JSON to Excel, the goal is usually to make the data easier to read, edit, and share.

This guide explains how to import JSON to Excel step by step, showing practical ways to move a JSON file to Excel without losing structure.

Table of Contents:

• What is JSON?
• What is Excel?
• Why Convert JSON to Excel?
• How to Import JSON to Excel: Step-By-Step Guide
• Alternative Methods to Import JSON into Excel
• Which Method Should You Choose?
• Common Issues While Importing JSON into Excel
• Conclusion

What is JSON?

JSON (JavaScript Object Notation) is a lightweight data format used to store and exchange structured data. It represents information using key–value pairs, making it easy for both humans and machines to read.

JSON is widely used in APIs, web applications, and data exchange because it supports multiple data types such as strings, numbers, arrays, and objects. Its simplicity and language-independent nature make it a preferred format for transferring data between systems, especially when working with backend services and frontend applications.

What is Excel?

Microsoft Excel is a spreadsheet application used to organize, analyze, and visualize data in rows and columns. It allows users to work with structured data, apply formulas, create tables, and generate charts for better data interpretation.

Because Excel supports data import from multiple sources and offers powerful data transformation tools, it is widely used for data analysis, reporting, and file-based data management, making it an ideal format for working with JSON data after conversion.

Why Convert JSON to Excel?

While JSON is ideal for storing and transferring data, it is not designed for easy viewing or analysis. Excel, on the other hand, provides a structured, tabular format that makes data easier to read, sort, filter, and analyze.

Converting JSON to Excel allows users to:

• View complex JSON data in a readable table format
• Perform calculations, apply formulas, and create charts
• Analyze and share data without writing code
• Work with JSON data using familiar Excel tools

This is especially useful for data analysis, reporting, debugging API responses, and business users who need insights without working directly with raw JSON files.

How to Import JSON to Excel: Step-By-Step Guide

Microsoft Excel’s Power Query makes it easy to import, transform, and convert JSON data into a structured Excel format, without writing code.

Step 1: Prepare Your JSON File

Ensure your JSON file is properly formatted and accessible on your system. Power Query works best with valid, well-structured JSON data.

Step 2: Open Excel and Create a Workbook

Launch Microsoft Excel and open a blank workbook where the JSON data will be imported.

Step 3: Open Power Query

In Excel 2016 and later (including Microsoft 365), Power Query is built in.

• Go to the Data tab
• Click Get Data

Step 4: Import the JSON File

• Select From File → From JSON
• Browse and select your JSON file
• Click Open

Excel will load the file into the Power Query Editor.

Step 5: Transform JSON Data

In the Power Query Editor, convert the JSON structure into a tabular format:

• Expand records and arrays
• Remove unnecessary columns
• Rename fields if required
• Adjust data types

This step ensures the JSON data is readable and analysis-ready in Excel.

Step 6: Load Data into Excel

Once the data looks correct:

• Click Close & Load

Excel will insert the converted JSON data into a new worksheet as a structured table.

Alternative Methods to Import JSON into Excel

If Power Query isn’t suitable for your workflow, consider these options:

1. Using Python (Pandas)

Ideal for developers and automation workflows.

import pandas as pd
df = pd.read_json('yourfile.json')
df.to_excel('output.xlsx', index=False)

2. Using Online JSON to Excel Converters

Quick and code-free for small files:

• AConvert
• ConvertCSV
• JSON-CSV

3. Using Google Sheets

Point to Consider
A cloud-based alternative that supports:

• Live data fetching
• API-based JSON imports
• Apps Script for JSON parsing

Point to Consider

Power Query is the most reliable and scalable option for converting JSON to Excel, but Python, VBA, online tools, and Google Sheets can be useful depending on file size, automation needs, and technical expertise.

Which Method Should You Choose?

The best way to convert JSON to Excel depends on your technical comfort, data size, and whether you need a one-time conversion or an automated workflow. The table below helps you quickly choose the right method based on practical use cases.

Common Issues While Importing JSON into Excel

While importing JSON into Excel is straightforward, users often face a few common issues, especially when working with real-world data.

• Invalid JSON format: Excel cannot read malformed JSON. Missing brackets, incorrect commas, or improper nesting can cause import failures. Always validate the JSON before importing.
• Nested JSON not expanding properly: Complex or deeply nested JSON files may load as records or lists. Use Power Query’s expand options to flatten the structure into columns.
• Large JSON files loading slowly: Power Query may struggle with very large files. In such cases, using Python (Pandas) or splitting the JSON file can improve performance.
• All data appearing in a single column: This usually happens when the JSON structure isn’t recognised correctly. Re-import the file using Data → Get Data → From JSON instead of copy-paste.
• API-based JSON not refreshing: When importing JSON from APIs, refresh failures may occur due to authentication or rate limits. Ensure proper credentials and stable endpoints.

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Conclusion

Converting JSON to Excel makes complex, structured data easier to read, analyze, and share. Whether you use Power Query in Excel, Python (Pandas), online JSON to Excel converters, or Google Sheets, the right method depends on your data size and technical comfort.

For most users, importing JSON into Excel using Power Query is the fastest and most reliable option. For large files or automation, Python offers greater flexibility. By choosing the right approach, you can efficiently transform JSON files into Excel and work with your data more productively.