How to Convert Other Files Types into SPSS or CSV Data Files

Introduction

Once a data file has been read into Q it can be saved as an SPSS .sav data file or CSV file.  This can be useful when you need to delete cases/variables from raw data due to customer request or you need to deliver a modified .sav file to the client. 

The article describes the process for saving your data file as an SPSS or CSV file. 

Requirements

A data file loaded in Q and which has been modified, for example, cases deleted, labels changed, values recoded, etc. 

Method

When you save as an SPSS data file, information contained in both the original data file and the Q project is saved, with any changes made in Q, being “hard coded” into the new data file.

The following changes will occur when saving a new data file: 

• Pick Any questions created in Q will be converted into binary variables (1s and 0s).
• Values recoded in Q will be hardcoded replacing the original values.
• Any modified labels will be used in place of the original label. 
• The results of any formulas created in Q will be included in the new data file, but the formulas themselves will not be included. 
• Any variables marked as hidden in the Variables and Questions tab will be excluded from the export.
• Any cases deleted in the Data tab will be excluded from the export. 

To save your data file as an SPSS or CSV file:

1. Select Tools > Save Data as SPSS/CSV File.  A summary of the below will be shown:

2. Click OK.
3. Navigate to the desired folder where you want to save the file and enter a file name. 
4. Select the file type you want to save from the Save as type drop-down box (SPSS or CSV). Note that you will also have an option to save as a QDat File (*.QDat) which is explained here. 
5. Click Save. 

Also See

How to Convert SPSS Syntax Files into SPSS Data Files

How to Format an SPSS File for Use in Q

How to Save a Modified Copy of an SPSS or CSV File