Microsoft has introduced the public preview of Python integration into Excel, aiming to enhance data analysis and visualisation capabilities. This feature enables proficient spreadsheet users to seamlessly combine Python scripts with their familiar Excel formulas within the same workbook. The announcement was made through a recent press release by the company.
The integration, known as “Python in Excel,” will initially be accessible to Microsoft 365 Insiders as part of the Excel for Windows beta channel. Users can merge Python and Excel analytics within a workbook without the need for any setup. By directly inputting Python code into a cell, the calculations are executed in the Microsoft Cloud, with the results, including plots and visualisations, returned to the worksheet.
Microsoft has collaborated with the data science platform Anaconda to bring this feature to fruition. By utilizing the Anaconda Python distribution hosted in Azure, Microsoft has incorporated well-known Python libraries such as Matplotlib and Seaborn for effective data visualisation.
To experiment with this functionality, individuals need to join the Microsoft 365 Insider Program and opt for the beta channel to access the latest Excel builds. Once accessed, initiating the process is as simple as selecting the “insert Python” option in the Formulas ribbon.
This introduction holds significance as it eliminates the need for third-party tools like Python to automate Excel processes. Python’s native integration empowers users to seamlessly automate Excel tasks, making it a highly beneficial choice for various projects. While there have been existing libraries and paid Excel add-ons that allowed Python users to work with Excel files, this official integration signifies a direct and user-friendly approach.
