How to split a multi-value CSV cell into separate rows
Splitting a cell is useful when tags or other repeated values need one row each for filtering or analysis. The parent record's identifier must stay with every expanded value.
Start with the right material.
- What you provide
- a small readable table with a declared multi-value delimiter.
- The intended result
- Separate rows from supplied readable values using a declared delimiter.
How the workflow works.
Specify the exact delimiter, whitespace rule and treatment of empty cells. Repeat the original identifier for each resulting row and preserve the source order when it carries meaning.
What to check in the result.
Compare the expanded rows with the original cells, including blanks. Do not treat a delimiter inside quoted or escaped content as a split point unless that is part of the explicitly chosen parsing rule.
Import the CSV with a consistent delimiter and inspect text identifiers, dates and amounts before using spreadsheet totals. Keep the original file available while checking any automatic type conversion.
Learn from the worked example.
The downloadable CSV example uses these columns: ID, Tag. Compare a complete record with the source before sorting, combining or importing your own output.
The supplied example is illustrative. It is not a recorded run on your data.
Download the example ↓Use it with your own material.
- Open the source you want to work with and activate WebAct on that tab.
- Copy the task from the hero, add any required fields or preferences, and review the proposed actions.
- Compare the first result with your source. Ask for a specific correction or refinement where needed.