How to Convert Table Data from JPG to XLSX

We process a lot of information in image format while performing daily tasks. That information may be sales summaries, expense sheets, reports, or attendance data. The problem arises when we feel the need to convert table images into Excel files, as the image format doesn’t allow editing and copying.

So, how can one convert images containing tabular data into XLSX or Excel Files? Well, it’s easy, as long as you’re following the right approach.

In this blog, we’ll talk about two methods to perform such conversions. So, keep reading.

The Need to Convert JPG Tables into XLSX

There are a number of reasons why one may want to convert an image containing important data into a structured XLSX file. In an image format, you can’t edit, copy, or reuse data easily. Applying formulas and filtering rows isn’t feasible when the tabular data is locked inside an image.

But once the same table is converted into an XLSX file (Excel spreadsheet), it’s easy to:

• Edit every cell
• Sort and clean the data
• Run calculations instantly
• Save it as an XLSX file and share it with others

Also, the JPG to XLSX conversion helps save time and reduce manual typing errors.

Method 1: Use the Built-in “Data From Picture” Feature in Excel

If you’re using Excel from Microsoft 365, you already have an in-built feature that can extract data directly from images. This is called “Data from Picture” feature. It scans the image and translates tables that are detected into editable cells.

Who Can Use This?

This option is available in:

• Microsoft 365 (web version)
• For Windows and Mac – Excel Version 2210 and later

It is not available in older perpetual versions such as Excel 2016, 2019 or 2021.

Steps to Convert JPG to XLSX with Excel

1. Open the Excel (Microsoft 365 version) application.
2. Create a new blank workbook.
3. Click on the Data tab on the top menu.
4. Select Get Data.
5. Choose Data from Picture.
6. Upload your JPG file.

Excel will scan the picture and present you a preview of the extracted data.

You’ll get a review panel where:

• You can make corrections before importing.
• Once all of this looks right, click on Insert Data.

Your table will now be editable cells within the spreadsheet. From there, you just need to save the file as XLSX.

When This Works Best

This method is effective when:

• The image is clear.
• The table has proper borders.
• The text is readable.

If the image is blurry or the table layout is messy, additional cleanup of the results may be necessary.

Method 2: Use an Online OCR Tool

If you do not have access to the latest version of Excel, there is another easy option. It is through an online OCR tool that converts JPG to XLSX. OCR is an acronym for Optical Character Recognition. It is a technology that reads text and structured data from images and converts it to editable content. There are plenty of online tools that can take a JPG file and turn it directly into an Excel spreadsheet without having to install anything.

How It Works

• Search for a JPG to Excel converter in your browser.
• Open a reliable tool.
• Upload your JPG image (or paste the URL of your image).
• Click the convert button.
• Wait a few seconds while the tool is processing the file.
• Download the converted XLSX file

Most tools also have a preview screen so you can double-check the extracted table before downloading it. Many users prefer this method because they don’t need to log in or buy a subscription for Microsoft 365. The tool works in a browser and performs better with images containing borderless tables. That said, depending on the image quality, you may still need to fix column alignment or minor recognition errors.

Tips for Getting Better Conversion Results

Regardless of the method you go with, here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Use high-resolution images wherever possible.
• Avoid tilted photos or those taken in shadow.
• Make sure the data is not cut off.
• Crop unnecessary background areas prior to uploading.
• The cleaner the image, the clearer the table that is extracted.

Wrapping Up

JPG files are good for sharing information, but it is not intended for editing or performing calculations. When you have data inside a table stuck in an image, the smartest thing you can do is to convert it to an Excel spreadsheet.

You can either use Excel’s built-in Data from Picture feature or depend on an online OCR tool.

Both of these methods help you to convert static table images to fully editable XLSX files. Once converted, you can sort, filter, calculate, and reuse the data without having to retype everything from scratch.

If you work with scanned reports or screenshots on a regular basis, learning this simple conversion process can save you hours of time each month.