Fix Excel Workbook Changes Lost After Saving and Closing
Question details
Completed work in an Excel assignment downloaded from Canvas is lost after the file is saved and closed.
- Product
- Microsoft Excel
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- A user downloads an assignment from Canvas, completes the work in Excel, saves and closes the file, but reopening it reveals all changes are missing.
- Observed behavior
- The Excel workbook fails to retain inputted data and changes upon being saved and closed, reverting to its previous state.
Before making changes to your software or file formats, ensure you duplicate the original downloaded Canvas assignment file so you have an untouched backup.
Verify Excel Version Compatibility and Update
Check if your Excel version meets the minimum requirements for the Canvas workbook and install available updates.
Certain educational workbooks have strict macro or grading requirements that only function correctly on newer versions of Microsoft Office, such as Office 2019 or Microsoft 365. If you are using an older build, the file may fail to save advanced data correctly.
Launch Microsoft Excel and click on the 'File' tab in the top-left corner of the ribbon, then select 'Account'.
Under the Product Information section, locate 'About Excel' to verify your current software version.
Click the 'Update Options' button next to your version details and select 'Update Now' to download and install the latest compatibility patches.
Save the Workbook in CSV Format
Export your completed assignment as a CSV file if Canvas requires this specific format for gradebook imports.
Never Lose Your Work with WPS Office
If your current version of Microsoft Office is causing compatibility issues or losing your Canvas assignment data, try WPS Office. It's a free, lightweight alternative that seamlessly handles all standard Excel file formats including XLSX and CSV without expensive version upgrades.
- 1. Download and Install: Download the free WPS Office suite from the official website and install it on your computer.
- 2. Open Your Assignment: Launch WPS Spreadsheet and open your downloaded Canvas assignment file.
- 3. Save and Upload: Complete your work, click 'Save As' to easily retain the required .xlsx or .csv format, and upload to Canvas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my Excel assignment lose data after I save and close it?
This typically occurs due to version incompatibility, where an older version of Excel cannot process the newer workbook features required by Canvas, or because the file was saved in a format that doesn't support the data entered.
How do I check if my Excel version is compatible with my Canvas course?
Review your course syllabus or Canvas instructions for specific system requirements (e.g., Office 2019). You can check your current version by opening Excel and navigating to File > Account, or 'About Excel' on Mac.
Can I use a CSV file for my Canvas grading upload?
Yes, many Canvas gradebook imports specifically require CSV files. You can create one by clicking File > Save As in your spreadsheet program and selecting 'CSV (Comma delimited)' as the file type.
