# Read Column

> `UiPath.Excel.Activities.ExcelReadColumn`

`UiPath.Excel.Activities.ExcelReadColumn`

Reads the values from a column beginning with the cell specified in the **StartingCell** property field, and stores them in an `IEnumerable<Object>` variable. Can only be used inside the **Excel Application Scope** or **Use Excel File** activities.

## Properties

#### Common

* **DisplayName** - The display name of the activity.

#### Input

* **SheetName** - The name of the sheet in which the column that you want to read is. By default, this is filled in with "Sheet1." Only String variables and strings are supported.
* **StartingCell** - The cell from which to start extracting the column data. By default, this is filled in with "A1". Only String variables and strings are supported.

#### Misc

* **Private** - If selected, the values of variables and arguments are no longer logged at Verbose level.

#### Options

* **PreserveFormat** - Selecting this check box keeps the formatting of the column that you want to read. By default, the check box is cleared.

#### Output

* **Result** - Stores the information from the specified spreadsheet column in an `IEnumerable<Object>` variable. Only `IEnumerable<Object>` variables are supported.

## Example of how to use the Read Column activity

To exemplify how to use this activity, we have built an automation project which reads information from a column found in an Excel file. You can download the example from [Read From Excel Files](https://docs.uipath.com/activities/other/latest/productivity/read-from-excel-files).