Written by Admin on 2025-05-06

How to Download CSV in WordPress

If you're running a WordPress website that involves data analysis or reporting, then you might need to regularly export your data in a CSV (Comma Separated Value) format. It's a simple file format that can be easily opened in various programs like Excel, Google Sheets, and LibreOffice Calc. In this article, we'll show you how to download CSV in WordPress without using any plugins.

Step 1: Export Data from WordPress

Before you can download your data in a CSV format, you first need to export it from your WordPress site. WordPress provides a built-in data export function that allows you to select specific content types, date ranges, and authors. Here's how to access and use it:

1. Log in to your WordPress dashboard and go to Tools > Export.

2. Choose the content type that you want to export (e.g., posts, pages, comments, etc.). You can also choose a date range and author if you want.

3. Click the Download Export File button to generate a XML file containing your data.

Step 2: Convert XML to CSV

Now that you have your data exported from WordPress, you can convert it to CSV format using a spreadsheet program. The most commonly used programs are Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, and LibreOffice Calc. Here's how to do it using Excel:

1. Open Microsoft Excel and go to File > Open.

2. Choose the exported XML file and click Open.

3. You'll see the Import XML dialog box. Make sure that the XML Source and XML Map options are selected, and then click OK.

4. Excel will import the data from the XML file and display it in a table format. You can now rearrange and format the data as needed.

5. Finally, go to File > Save As and choose CSV (Comma delimited) as the file type. Give your file a name, and then click Save.

Step 3: Download CSV in WordPress

Once you've converted your data to CSV format, you can upload it to your WordPress site and make it available for download. Here's how to do it:

1. Log in to your WordPress dashboard and go to Media > Add New.

2. Click the Select Files button and choose the CSV file that you want to upload.

3. Once the file is uploaded, click the Edit link next to it.

4. Copy the File URL, which is displayed in the right-hand column.

5. Now you can create a link to the CSV file anywhere on your WordPress site. To do this, simply create a new post or page, highlight the text that you want to turn into a link, and click the Insert/edit link button (it looks like a chain).

6. Paste the File URL into the URL field, and then click Add Link.

7. Finally, publish your post or page, and your visitors will be able to download the CSV file by clicking on the link.

That's it! You now know how to download CSV in WordPress without needing to install any plugins. With this knowledge, you can easily export, convert, and share your data in a convenient and accessible format.