How to use Python in Excel

 

Python in Excel lets you run Python code directly in cells for advanced data analysis, using libraries like pandas and matplotlib, all powered by Microsoft's cloud—no local Python install needed. It requires a qualifying Microsoft 365 subscription and internet access, available on Windows, web, and Mac versions of Excel.

Requirements

Python in Excel works with Microsoft 365 subscriptions on supported platforms like Excel for Windows, Excel on the web, and Excel for Mac. It's not available on mobile apps like iPad or Android, where Python cells show errors. No local Python setup is required, as code runs securely in the Microsoft Cloud with Anaconda libraries. 

Enable Python

Open Excel, go to a blank workbook, and select Formulas > Insert Python on the ribbon to enable it in a cell. Alternatively, type `=PY(` in any cell and select PY from autocomplete—the cell will show a PY icon. 

Basic Usage

Enter Python code after `=PY(`, like `import pandas as pd; df = xl("A1:B10", headers=True); return df.describe()`. Reference Excel data with `xl("A1")` or select ranges directly (use F2 to edit). Code calculates in row-major order, from left to right and top to bottom. 

Output Options

Choose Python object (card icon for DataFrames, reusable in other Python cells) or Excel value (for charts/formulas) via the formula bar dropdown. Expand the bar with Ctrl+Shift+U for multi-line editing. 

Import Data

Load external data via Power Query (Get & Transform), then reference with `xl()`. Direct functions like `pd.read_csv()` are blocked for security—use worksheet data or queries instead. 

Tips

Use manual/partial calculation under Formulas > Calculation Options for performance on large sheets (recalc with F9). Copilot integration helps generate code if you're new to Python.