How to Open a SLK File in Excel
SLK files, short for Symbolic Link format, are a legacy spreadsheet file format that can encapsulate data, formulas, and formatting in one file. This format is particularly useful for sharing data across different spreadsheet applications or between different versions of Excel.
Understanding SLK Files
SLK (Symbolic Link) is a file format that was commonly used in earlier versions of Excel and other spreadsheet applications. These files can contain spreadsheet data, mathematical formulas, cell formatting, and other spreadsheet elements. The advantage of SLK format is its compatibility across various spreadsheet applications and its ability to preserve formulas and formatting during file transfers. However, modern Excel prefers native formats like XLSX, which is why you might encounter warnings when opening SLK files.
There are two ways to open an SLK file in Excel:
Using the File menu
This is the most straightforward method for opening SLK files in Excel. Follow these step-by-step instructions:
- Click the File tab.
- In the Open section, click Open.
- In the Open dialog box, navigate to the folder where the SLK file is located.
- Select the SLK file and click Open.
Excel will open the SLK file and display its contents. You may see a message that says
The file format and extension of ‘filename.slk’ don’t match. The file could be corrupted or unsafe. Unless you trust its source, don’t open it. Do you want to open it anyway?
This is just a security warning that Excel gives when opening files that are not in its native format. You can click Yes to proceed.
Using the Ctrl + O keyboard shortcut
Begin by launching Excel and selecting “File” > “Open” or by pressing Ctrl+O. In the dialog box, navigate to your SLK file. If it isn’t immediately visible, adjust the file type filter to “All Files (.)” or “Text Files (*.prn, *.txt, *.csv, *.slk)”. Select your file and click “Open” to proceed.
Importing Data from SLK File
Upon opening an SLK file, Excel may prompt you with the Text Import Wizard, essential for correctly formatting the imported data. This tool allows customization of data delimitation and formatting, ensuring accurate data representation. Follow the wizard’s guidance to complete the import process effectively.
Saving SLK Data in Excel Format
After the SLK file is successfully imported and the data is verified, saving the file in an Excel-specific format is recommended for future ease of use. Navigate to “File” > “Save As”, choose “Excel Workbook (*.xlsx)” from the dropdown menu, and click “Save”. This action converts the SLK file into a more versatile and editable Excel workbook.
