# Import, export & portable sheets

Use imports for a deliberate new sheet and exports for a readable data copy.

Start with a clean header row and one record per row. CSV and TSV can be uploaded, or cells can be pasted from another tool. The first column becomes the record name. Choose meaningful names before importing so links, search, and record detail screens remain readable.

## Import a sheet

- Choose Import CSV on first run, Import data from the workbook home, or Import inside a workbook.
- Upload a file or paste the table. Inspect the first five preview rows.
- Set field types explicitly where interpretation matters: dates use YYYY-MM-DD, and identifiers such as 00127 should stay Text.
- Choose a sheet name and destination, then select Import sheet.
- Inspect a few records, numeric formats, option values, and date views after saving.

| Import limit | Current implementation |
| --- | --- |
| Data rows | 500 per import. |
| Columns | 50 per import. |
| Source data | 2 MB. |
| Serialized save request | Must also fit within 4 MiB. |

Source-file size alone does not guarantee that the serialized request fits. Split large datasets into deliberate batches or simplify very long content. A field-type or rule rejection needs to be corrected before the whole batch can commit.

## Export readable values

Use Space options → Export CSV on a sheet. The server exports active records, including calculated values and readable linked-record/member names. Formula-like text receives an apostrophe prefix so spreadsheet tools treat it as text. Export is based on authoritative data rather than only the table rows currently loaded in the browser.

> **CSV is not a complete backup** A sheet export does not preserve the complete workspace: memberships, rules, saved views, documents and immutable versions, attachments, private mail, history, and automation state require the administrator’s database and file backup process.

If exported values appear surprising in another spreadsheet, check that application’s automatic date and number conversion. Keep an untouched original export before making transformations.