Power Query Trick: Combine Inconsistent Files Like a Pro

Power Query Trick: Combine Inconsistent Files Like a Pro
Combining files from a folder in Excel can be a real hassle when the headers don’t match or extra columns appear. In today’s tutorial, I’ll show you a simple Power Query method to solve this automatically. Instead of manually fixing each file, you’ll learn how to use a formula that brings in all your column names, no matter how they differ.

By the end of this video, you'll know how to:

Handle different headers across multiple files.
Combine files with varying numbers of columns.
Build a complete list of column names from your folder.
Make sure your query works even if someone adds new columns.

Power Query makes combining inconsistent files much easier and saves you time. Let’s get started.

🔔 Subscribe for more tutorials:    / @howtolearnexcel  

Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction: The issue with combining files with inconsistent headers
00:23 - Avoiding header mismatch problems
00:56 - Explanation of the formula: List.Transform and Table.ColumnNames
01:50 - The List.Union function
02:29 - What happens after the formula
02:39 - Final thoughts: Manual header fixes and future enhancements

'Power Query Challenges' Playlist:
   • Power Query: Challenges  

'Power Query Tutorials' Playlist:
   • Power Query: Tip & Tricks  

#PowerQuery #HowToLearnExcel