Convert CRTX to XLSM

Understanding the crtx and xlsm file formats

CRTX files are Microsoft Office Chart Template files. They store chart formatting and styles, allowing users to apply consistent chart designs across multiple Excel workbooks. However, CRTX files do not contain data or macros—only chart formatting.

XLSM files are Excel Macro-Enabled Workbook files. These are standard Excel spreadsheets that can contain data, formulas, charts, and embedded VBA macros, making them suitable for automating tasks and complex data manipulation.

How to convert crtx to xlsm

Direct conversion from CRTX to XLSM is not possible because they serve different purposes. However, you can apply a CRTX chart template to an Excel workbook and then save the workbook as an XLSM file. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Open Microsoft Excel.
2. Create or open a workbook where you want to use the chart template.
3. Insert a chart with your data.
4. Select the chart, then go to Chart Tools → Design → Change Chart Type → Templates.
5. Click Manage Templates and select your .crtx file to apply the template to your chart.
6. To enable macros, add or record a macro if needed.
7. Save the workbook by choosing File → Save As and select Excel Macro-Enabled Workbook (*.xlsm) as the file type.

Best software for crtx to xlsm conversion

The best and most reliable software for this process is Microsoft Excel (2010 or later). Excel natively supports both CRTX and XLSM formats, ensuring compatibility and preserving all formatting and macro functionality.

Summary

While you cannot directly convert a CRTX file to XLSM, you can apply a chart template from a CRTX file to an Excel workbook and save it as an XLSM file using Microsoft Excel. This process allows you to combine custom chart formatting with macro-enabled functionality in your spreadsheets.