How to Rename a File in Excel

In this article, you will learn two straightforward methods to change the name of workbooks in Excel.

‍

Why change the names of Excel workbooks?

Renaming an Excel file can be useful in the following ways:

• Improved organization: By renaming a file, it can be easier to identify and locate the file later on, especially when you have multiple files with similar names. A descriptive Excel workbook name can give you a quick understanding of what the workbook contains, making it easier to manage and organize your files.
• Compliance with naming conventions: Some organizations have specific naming conventions for files, which may include project codes or document types in the file name. By adhering to these naming conventions, you can ensure that Excel workbooks are named in a consistent and meaningful way, making it easier to share and manage workbooks within the organization.

‍

How to rename an Excel file?

Method 1: Changing an Excel file name using the ‘Rename’ option

Step 1: Open the folder where the Excel workbook is saved using ‘File Explorer’ (‘Finder’ in case of Mac)

Step 2: Right-click on the file name, click on ‘Show more options’ and select the ‘Rename’ option

Step 3: Once the file name becomes editable, it will be highlighted in blue. Then, type the new name and press the “Enter” key.

The Excel file will now be renamed. 

The below pictures display the step-by-step process to be followed to change an Excel file name using the ‘Rename’ option.

‍

‍

‍

Method 2: Renaming an Excel workbook using the mouse

Step 1: Open the folder where the Excel file is saved using ‘File Explorer’ (‘Finder’ in case of Mac)

Step 2: Left-click on the workbook name and after a 2-3 second pause, left-click on the workbook name again

Step 3: The Excel file name becomes editable and will be highlighted in blue. Then, type the new name and press the “Enter” key.

The Excel file will now be renamed.

The below picture displays the step-by-step process to be followed to rename the Excel workbook using the mouse.

‍

Analyze your live financial data in a snap in Google Sheets

Are you learning this formula to visualize financial data, build a financial model, or conduct financial analysis? In that case, LiveFlow may help you automate manual workflows, update numbers in real-time, and save time. You can access various financial templates on our website, from the simple Income Statement to Multi-Currency Consolidated Financial Statement. Are you interested in this product but are an Excel user? That’s not a problem at all. You can connect Google Sheets to Excel quickly. 

To learn more about LiveFlow, book a demo.

You can learn about other Excel and Google Sheets formulas and tips that are not mentioned here on this page: LiveFlow‘s How to Guides