Excel already has an editor for Python programming.

Microsoft has implemented Python programming editor in Excel. The feature, which began as an experiment in 2023, has been permanently integrated into the spreadsheet app. Users will now be able to it’s easier to write code while the Microsoft cloud is responsible for performing the computations.

According to a post on the Excel blog, the code editor has capabilities similar to those available in other Python environments. The editor is optimized for longer sections of code, so users are not limited to the space of a single cell.

To activate it, users must select the option “Insert Python” is located in the “Formulas” section.. If we directly click on the Editor icon, a sidebar will open asking us if we want to add Python to the selected cell. Editor Section It is divided into blocks that belong to each cell.in which we can write code, save it or export it.

One of the most striking features of the Excel Python editor is that It has some features that we find in Visual Studio Code.such as IntelliSense. This component adds auto-complete, formatting, and code completion options. The editor formats the code of each cell, adding colors to various elements.

Microsoft mentions that the Python editor show cells in working orderAccording to the documentation, in an Excel worksheet, Python cells are calculated in parent row order. Cell calculations are performed on one row and then on each subsequent row in the worksheet.

Each editor block includes a section with the result of the code execution, so if an error occurs, we can identify and debug it.

How to Activate Python Editor in Excel

Python Code Editor Available in Excel for Mac, iPad, iPhone, Android, and the webTo activate it, you need to sign up for the Microsoft 365 Insider program, otherwise Teams will not appear.

After the adoption, all that remains for us is open the spreadsheet, go to the Formulas section and find the corresponding icon. The editor opens in the sidebar and allows you to add Python to as many cells as you want. If you click the Insert Python button in the top ribbon, the editor will add a block of code to the selected cell.

He the code is automatically formatted and there is a line showing the calculation result before you paste it into a cell. It is important to note that all data you process with Python in Excel must come from your spreadsheet. Appendix allows you to import external data via Power Querybut this requires an extra step on the Data tab.

However, Python opens the door to a world of Excel possibilities. Your access is currently limited to the Insider program.If you don’t have a Microsoft 365 membership, you won’t be able to access this feature. The web version of Excel allows you to activate the editor via Add-ins > Excel Labs, but you’ll get an error when you try to run the code.