Fix Create New Excel Workbook in Excel on Windows

This guide walks you through power query problems using Microsoft-supported steps first, with WPS only where it genuinely helps.

Problem Description: 1904 Date System Mismatch

1904 Date System Mismatch Between Power Query Tables and Excel Data Tables prevents Excel from working as expected. Power Query tables extracting data from standard Excel tables [in the same workbook] cannot reconcile the date system between standard Excel tables and Power Query tables in the same workbook, resulting in a +4yr error between dates in the source table…

Quick Answer for Excel Won't Complete Task

Power Query Problems should be diagnosed from the first incorrect cell, query step, macro line, or source value. Work on a copy and test each correction on a small sample before applying it to the full workbook.

Likely Causes Behind Common Power Query Problems Triggers

• The Microsoft account or license context may not match the purchase or device.

• Cached credentials, outdated builds, or damaged local components can trigger power query problems.

• A file-specific corruption or add-in conflict can mimic a broader application failure.

Recommended Solution: Installing Excel on a New PC

When to use this: Apply these steps when the symptoms match and you can access the relevant Microsoft account or administrator.

1. Create a new Excel workbook.

2. Create the relevant worksheets.

3. Go to File > Options > Advanced.

4. Check or clear Use 1904 date system so that all tables (including those used by Power Query) are interpreted with the same system.

5. Check for mixed-origin data If some tables were created in a workbook that used the 1904 system and others in a workbook that used 1900, then copied/linked together, the serials will be inconsistent.

6. Set that system in File > Options > Advanced for the workbook.

Alternative Solutions for Broader Power Query Problems Workarounds

1. Retry the Microsoft-side steps after restarting the app and device.

2. Test the same action in a private browser session or a new blank file to isolate account vs file issues.

3. Capture exact error text and screenshots before contacting Microsoft Support or your administrator.

Working with WPS Office: Using WPS While Excel Is Unavailable

WPS Office cannot replace Microsoft account, activation, or cloud fixes for this scenario. It remains one of the best free Microsoft Office-compatible alternatives for opening and editing local files.

1. Download and install WPS Office from the official website.

2. Open local Word, Excel, PowerPoint, or PDF files in the matching WPS app.

3. Save a working copy locally while Microsoft-side issues are resolved.

4. Return to Microsoft Office after the primary fix succeeds.

If you need a practical local workspace in the meantime, try WPS Office.

Prevention Tips for Avoiding Repeat Power Query Problems

• Keep one primary Microsoft account for subscriptions and Office sign-in.

• Install updates for Office and Windows before retrying failed workflows.

• Back up important files before repair, reset, or reinstall actions.

• Document exact error messages before the next troubleshooting attempt.

FAQs About 1904 Troubleshooting FAQ

Can WPS Office fix this power query problems issue directly? Only when the WPS steps match the formatting or file task. Account, activation, and cloud issues stay on the Microsoft side.

Should I reinstall Excel before trying these steps? Not first. Confirm account, license, and the exact error before reinstalling.

What should I send to Microsoft Support? The affected account email, device type, Office version, exact error text, and screenshots with personal data hidden.