> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.diaflow.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.diaflow.io/studio/nodes/action-nodes/spreadsheet-creator.md).

# Spreadsheet Creator

Turn structured data into a downloadable CSV or Excel file.

## Spreadsheet Creator

### What does it do?

The **Spreadsheet Creator** node turns structured data into a spreadsheet file you can download, share, or send to someone else. Think of it like an export assistant that takes workflow results and packages them into a ready-to-use report.

#### Smart Features

* **Accepts flexible input**: You can send a list of records, one record, or column-based data.
* **Cleans extra text around the data**: If the input contains unwanted text before or after the data, the node tries to isolate the usable part.
* **Converts one record automatically**: If you send just one item, the node still turns it into a spreadsheet correctly.
* **Creates the file and stores it for you**: The node uploads the finished spreadsheet automatically and returns a secure file link.
* **Adds the file to Diaflow Drive**: The exported file is also registered in your workspace storage so your team can find it later.

<figure><img src="https://3864624312-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FRdo1pkMnofwxf3lpWftw%2Fuploads%2F2RpxTWrVRLTfvXjCh9AP%2Fcursorful-video-1778229961521.gif?alt=media&amp;token=a9aaccf7-24a5-4247-956d-c16d764a7df8" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

### Real-World Business Value

* Export filtered sales results into Excel and send them to finance or leadership.
* Turn AI-generated tables into CSV files for upload into another business system.
* Convert workflow results into spreadsheet attachments for scheduled reports or customer updates.

### Step-by-Step Setup

* In the **Input Data** field, select the structured output from an earlier node using **@**.
* Make sure the input is structured like records and fields, not plain text.
* In the **Format** field, choose **CSV** if the file will be imported elsewhere.
* Choose **XLSX** if the file will be opened in modern Excel.
* Choose **XLS** only if someone still needs the older Excel format.
* Run the workflow and copy the returned file link, or open the file from your workspace storage.

<figure><img src="https://3864624312-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FRdo1pkMnofwxf3lpWftw%2Fuploads%2FNZQd97sFhr09NuASs7Q1%2Frounded-image%20(58).png?alt=media&amp;token=88067a1d-2054-4de9-8e95-a0f04abd6f19" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

### The Transformation: Before & After

**Before**

```json
[
  {
    "Customer": "Acme Corp",
    "Region": "APAC",
    "Status": "Active",
    "Revenue": 12500
  },
  {
    "Customer": "Blue Peak",
    "Region": "EMEA",
    "Status": "Pending",
    "Revenue": 8300
  }
]
```

**After**

```
Output file: customer-report.xlsx

Customer   | Region | Status  | Revenue
Acme Corp  | APAC   | Active  | 12500
Blue Peak  | EMEA   | Pending | 8300
```

<figure><img src="https://3864624312-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FRdo1pkMnofwxf3lpWftw%2Fuploads%2F1ilPbH9xMZUAUz8YnlZ1%2Frounded-image%20(59).png?alt=media&amp;token=553c4cbc-c331-4322-b0dc-e64c5df87e06" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

### &#x20;Tips &  Warnings for First-Timers

* Do not paste plain sentences into **Input Data**. This node needs structured data, not free text.
* Keep all rows consistent. If one row uses different field names, the exported sheet may contain unexpected blank cells.
* Avoid adding notes like `Results:` before the data. Paste only the structured data itself when possible.
* Use **XLSX** for most cases. Choose **XLS** only for older systems, and remember it has a row limit.
* If your file may grow large, avoid **XLS**. Older Excel files can fail once they pass about 65,000 rows.
* The exported file name is generated automatically. If you email or store many exports, rename the file afterward so it is easier to recognize.
* The file is meant for download and sharing, not advanced formatting. It does not add colors, custom sheet names, multiple tabs, or styled headers.
* Open generated links soon after creation if they are used in later steps. Some temporary files may not stay available forever.
* If the file link works but the file does not appear in Drive right away, refresh and check again.

### Need help?

* Learn the basics in [How a node works](/studio/lets-start-with-the-basics/how-a-node-works.md)
* Build the full flow in [Create a workflow](/studio/manage-a-workflow/create-a-workflow.md)
* Browse related nodes in [Component List](/studio/component-list.md)