Official document sharing
CSV is used to share documents that need to look the same on every device and operating system.
Format Encyclopedia
CSV File Format
CSV is a widely used spreadsheet file format with broad support across tools and platforms.
Format authority
Spreadsheet format reference
MIME type: application/octet-stream
Extension: .csv
Category: spreadsheet
Supported OS: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android
Quick answer
What is CSV?
CSV — Comma-Separated Values format for tabular data exchange where each row represents a record and columns are separated by commas, widely supported across applications.
CSV is a spreadsheet file format. Comma-Separated Values format for tabular data exchange where each row represents a record and columns are separated by commas, widely supported across applications. It is commonly used in workflows that require reliable spreadsheet handling and is supported by a wide range of applications and online tools.
Use cases
Common uses of CSV
Business reports and proposals
CSV is a reliable format for distributing professional reports, contracts, and formal documents.
Form and template publishing
CSV is commonly used for fillable forms, legal documents, and templates with fixed structure.
Archive and long-term storage
CSV is a trusted choice for archiving documents that need to remain readable over many years.
Printing and publishing
CSV is used in print workflows because it preserves layout, fonts, and formatting across different printers.
Comparisons
CSV vs other formats
CSV vs XLSX
CSV and XLSX are both widely used file formats. Choosing between them depends on your compatibility needs, quality requirements, and the tools available in your workflow.
CSV vs XLS
CSV and XLS are both widely used file formats. Choosing between them depends on your compatibility needs, quality requirements, and the tools available in your workflow.
CSV vs ODS
CSV and ODS are both widely used file formats. Choosing between them depends on your compatibility needs, quality requirements, and the tools available in your workflow.
Overview
Format summary
History
CSV has a long history as a practical file format in its category.
Specification
CSV is defined by an established file specification and is widely documented by the format community.
Developer
CSV is maintained through its standardization body and broad ecosystem support. Open formats are often improved by community contributors and software vendors.
Technical details
File format characteristics
Compression
Compression behavior varies by file content and encoder settings.
Encoding
Encoding depends on the format family and standard codec definitions.
Metadata
This format carries metadata in its standard container or file headers.
Performance
Smaller files open faster and are easier to transfer.
Best practices
How to use this format well
Keep originals
Save a copy of the original file before converting or editing.
Use compatible tools
Choose software that explicitly supports the format for best results.
Advantages
Why use this format
Wide support
CSV is supported by many applications and services.
Interoperability
The format is recognized across platforms and workflow tools.
Disadvantages
Format limitations
File size
Some formats can produce large files depending on quality settings.
Format complexity
Advanced features may not be supported by every tool.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
CSV is a file format used in spreadsheet workflows.
Most modern applications in the category support this format.
Yes, it is designed for cross-platform use and broad compatibility.
Yes, many tools can convert it to other related file formats.
Use a compatible viewer or editor for the format.
Metadata handling depends on the format and the tool used.
Related formats
Related Format Guides
Related converters
Conversion tools for this format
CSV to TSV
Convert CSV data files to TSV (tab-separated values) format.
TSV to CSV
Convert TSV (tab-separated values) data files to CSV format.
Troubleshooting
Common problems and fixes
Check the extension
Confirm the file uses the correct extension and file header.
Try a different tool
Use another application if the current tool cannot open the file.
Reference