Convert XLS to STW

Understanding xls and stw file formats

XLS is the proprietary spreadsheet file format used by Microsoft Excel, primarily for storing data in tabular form, including formulas, charts, and formatting. STW is the template file format for spreadsheets used by OpenOffice Calc and LibreOffice Calc. STW files serve as reusable templates for creating new spreadsheet documents with predefined styles and layouts.

Why convert xls to stw?

Converting an XLS file to STW is useful when you want to use an Excel spreadsheet as a template in OpenOffice or LibreOffice. This allows you to standardize document creation across different office suites and maintain consistent formatting.

How to convert xls to stw

The most reliable way to convert XLS to STW is by using LibreOffice Calc or Apache OpenOffice Calc. Both applications support opening XLS files and saving them as STW templates.

Steps using LibreOffice Calc

1. Open LibreOffice Calc.
2. Go to File → Open and select your XLS file.
3. After the file loads, go to File → Save As.
4. In the Save as type dropdown, select ODF Spreadsheet Template (.stw).
5. Choose your destination folder and click Save.

Steps using Apache OpenOffice Calc

1. Open OpenOffice Calc.
2. Go to File → Open and select your XLS file.
3. Go to File → Save As.
4. In the File type dropdown, select OpenDocument Spreadsheet Template (.stw).
5. Click Save to complete the conversion.

Recommended software for xls to stw conversion

• LibreOffice Calc – Free, open-source, and available for Windows, macOS, and Linux.
• Apache OpenOffice Calc – Another free, open-source alternative supporting both formats.

Online converters for this specific conversion are rare and may not preserve formatting or formulas accurately. Desktop software is recommended for best results.

Tips for successful conversion

• Check your spreadsheet after conversion to ensure all formatting and formulas are intact.
• Update any macros or scripts, as they may not transfer perfectly between formats.
• Save a backup of your original XLS file before converting.