Google: Control Microsoft Office File Formats in Drive Uploads

Environment

U-M Google, Drive, Microsoft 365

Issue

I want to convert my Microsoft Office files to Google Docs, Sheets, or Slides format or otherwise ensure the files remain in Microsoft Office format when uploading to Drive.

Resolution

Microsoft Office files uploaded to Google Drive can be stored in their default Microsoft file formats (e.g., .docx, .xlsx, .pptx) or converted to Google file formats (e.g., .gdoc, .gsheet, .gslides). To control the file format of Microsoft documents uploaded to Google Drive, follow these steps:

  1. Open Google Drive in your web browser.
  2. Click the gear icon in the upper-right corner and select Settings.
  3. Scroll down to the Uploads section.
  4. Check the Convert uploads to Google Docs editor format box if you want Microsoft files to be automatically converted to Google Docs, Sheets, or Slides formats upon upload. Otherwise, uncheck that box if you prefer to keep the original Microsoft file formats without conversion.

The changes will take effect immediately, but will only affect new files that are uploaded to Google Drive. Files uploaded before the change will remain in their current format.

Additional Information

Additional information on working with Excel & Google Sheets is available in the Use both Excel & Sheets: Best practices Google Help Center article.

Need additional information or assistance? Contact the ITS Service Center.

 

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