How to Achieve True CSV Output with String Quoting in SQL Server Management Studio?

Obtaining True CSV Output with String Quoting in SQL Server Management Studio

In SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS), exporting data to CSV format poses a challenge when it comes to handling data containing commas or quotation marks. While many articles offer methods for exporting data in a "wannabe" CSV format, lacking proper string quoting, this article delves into how to achieve true CSV output with string quoting in SSMS.

In SSMS 2012, an option exists under Tools -> Options -> Query Results -> SQL Server -> Results to Grid. There, you will find the setting "Quote strings containing list separators when saving .csv results." By enabling this option, data exported to CSV format will have string values enclosed in quotation marks.

It is astonishing that this option is not enabled by default, considering the importance of proper CSV formatting for accurate data import. It defies logic that the default CSV export behavior makes it impossible to import data without errors caused by unquoted strings.

Excel also exhibits similar behavior in its CSV export feature. To remedy this, search for any available options within Excel to enable string quoting for CSV export.

In addition to SSMS, other tools can also be utilized to generate true CSV output with string quoting. These tools may provide more customization options and flexibility when exporting data. By exploring these alternatives, you can tailor your data export process to meet your specific requirements without having to resort to writing custom code.

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