top of page

Power Automate - Create columns in an Excel using JSON

Just came up against a very interesting Power Automate problem that I had never come across before. I needed to be able to create an excel file and populate a different data set in a spreadsheet dependent on some criteria.

I thought it would be a matter, of creating an Excel template and then copying it over to a new file location, but not that simple. I had to first create the Excel file, then get the content metadata and store that in a compose step. This gave me a blank Excel file content, which I could then save anywhere I wanted. After that I created the file with that file content from the compose step, in SharePoint and gave it a name. Then use Create a table action:

Then, and this is the cool bit, I had to add a row into that table, because I didn't have any row information, I used JSON to create the row based on the values supplied and into the columns I had created. Using key value pairs from the manual trigger and the table column names:

Nice !!

13 Comments


Cole Owen
Cole Owen
11 hours ago

This is such a clever workaround, Jon! I ran into a similar challenge when trying to dynamically generate Excel reports with varying column structures depending on the dataset, and the JSON key-value pair approach you've shown here is exactly the kind of solution I was looking for. It's interesting how automation tools like Power Automate mirror structured thinking in other fields too — students using an Assignment Writing Service UK often face the same challenge of organizing dynamic content into consistent formats. Getting that blank file content from the compose step first is a detail I would have completely overlooked, so thanks for highlighting it. Really clean and practical walkthrough!

Like

Cikya Almera
Cikya Almera
6 days ago

Entry-level construction roles typically require certain credentials. Researching how to get cscs green card helps individuals meet those expectations. It reinforces basic safety knowledge. Many employers consider it mandatory. The College of Contract Management supports professional learning conversations.

Like

John Snow
John Snow
Nov 17, 2025

Understanding what an smsts cscs card represents can help evaluate supervisory readiness. It often relates to improved decision-making in site safety matters. Individuals aiming to strengthen these skills may consider SMSTS training from the College of Contract Management.

Like

Nathan D. Morgan
Nov 05, 2025

This post does a nice job explaining how JSON can automate column creation in Excel and save time when dealing with repetitive tasks. It is helpful to see how structured data can reduce manual errors and keep everything consistent across different workflows. Anyone working with large sets of information in Power Automate can benefit from learning how to format their JSON properly before running a flow. For researchers or writers who need to manage academic data, tools like a Scopus Online Journal Publishing Service can also help keep information organized and ready for indexing, which supports smoother projects overall.

Like

Lisa John
Lisa John
Nov 05, 2025

This guide on utilizing Power Automate to generate Excel columns through JSON is exceptionally clear and practical, demonstrating a step-by-step approach to efficiently automate table creation and data insertion. In a similar vein, just as structured workflows streamline intricate tasks, Take My Online Exam Pro assists students in doing my online Job placement exam with both confidence and precision.

Like

Subscribe Form

©2019 by Jon Does Flow. Proudly created with Wix.com

bottom of page