Why convert LST to CSV?
Many programs export tabular data with a .lst extension, but tools like Excel, Google Sheets, and databases expect .CSV for direct import. Converting the file removes format ambiguity and lets spreadsheet apps parse columns automatically. A plain list with one item per line also becomes valid single-column CSV with no extra work.
How to convert LST to CSV
Rename in File Explorer / Finder BUILT-IN
If your .lst is already comma- or tab-delimited, rename it to .csv - spreadsheet apps will open it directly without any extra steps.
LibreOffice Calc OPEN-SOURCE
Open the .lst via File > Open; the Text Import dialog appears automatically so you can choose the delimiter and save as .csv.
Command line - rename CLI
Run mv file.lst file.csv on macOS/Linux or ren file.lst file.csv on Windows when the file is already delimited plain text.
About these formats
.LST
List File (generic plain-text list / listing)
A .lst file is a plain-text list - file names, paths, values, or a compiler/assembler listing, usually one entry per line. Open it in any text editor: Notepad++ or Notepad on Windows,…
Open .LST details →
.CSV
Comma-Separated Values
A CSV file stores tabular data as plain text - one row per line, values separated by commas (or semicolons in European locales). Any spreadsheet opens it: Excel, Google Sheets, LibreOffice…
Open .CSV details →Quality & what to watch
- Open the file in a text editor first -
.lsthas no standard and is used by compilers, installers, and games for very different content. - Binary
.lstfiles appear as random characters in a text editor and cannot be converted to CSV regardless of method. - A delimiter mismatch (tabs imported as commas) puts all data in one column - always verify the separator in the import wizard preview before saving.
Frequently asked questions
Can I convert any LST file to CSV?
.lst files with delimited columns or one item per line. Compiler listing files and binary formats will not produce meaningful CSV output.What if my LST has one item per line and no delimiters?
.csv; each line becomes a single-column row, which is valid CSV. Add a header row in a text editor first if you need one.
