Microsoft has officially released its beta-tested Python in Excel feature, now available to all Microsoft 365 Business and Enterprise subscribers. This integration significantly enhances Excel’s data analysis and automation capabilities by allowing users to run Python code directly within their spreadsheets.
Python code can be used for advanced tasks such as data visualization, predictive modeling, and deep analytics, giving users unparalleled control over their data. Each cell in an Excel spreadsheet can contain and execute Python code, making it easy to perform complex calculations and manipulate data. To simplify the process, Excel features a dedicated Python Editor pane that lists and allows users to interact with all code cells in a spreadsheet.
One notable aspect of this integration is its cloud-based nature. Python code runs remotely on Microsoft’s servers, utilizing apps and libraries from the Anaconda repository. While this approach eliminates the need for users to install bloated Python libraries or worry about version inconsistencies, it does come with limitations. Users cannot access offline features, and a Microsoft server outage could impact business operations.
Additionally, some advanced functionality, such as manual and partial recalculation modes, is locked behind a paid add-on license. However, Microsoft’s Copilot in Excel with Python preview can assist users without prior programming experience by performing tasks for them. Just remember to double-check the output.
The new Python integration is currently exclusive to Business and Enterprise customers. A guide on using Python with Excel can be found on Microsoft’s website. For those who prefer a hands-on approach, you can test Python functionality by opening a new spreadsheet, selecting a blank cell, and typing the =PY function. The third-party PyXLL add-in is also an alternative for users unable to access the official integration.
Source: https://www.howtogeek.com/python-arrives-in-microsoft-excel/