Create a table in Baserow

Baserow makes table creation flexible; choose the approach that saves you the most time.

Learn three ways to create tables; start from scratch, duplicate existing tables, or import from external files. Choose the method that matches your workflow and get organizing fast.

Overview

Tables are where your data lives in Baserow. Creating a new table takes seconds, whether you’re starting fresh, copying an existing structure, or importing from CSV, Excel, JSON, or XML. Each method suits different scenarios; blank tables for custom projects, duplication for consistency, and imports for migrating existing data.

Ways to create tables

Method Best for Starting point
New blank table Custom projects with unique needs Empty table with default fields
Duplicate existing Replicating proven structures Copy of table structure and data
Import from file Migrating spreadsheet data Your existing CSV/Excel/JSON/XML

Method 1: Create a blank table

Start with an empty table when building custom structures from scratch. This gives you complete control over field types and organization.

Step-by-step instructions

  1. Click on a database in the sidebar
  2. Click + New table at the bottom of the table list
  3. Enter a descriptive name for your table (e.g., “Customers,” “Tasks,” “Inventory”)
  4. Select Start with a new table
  5. Click Add table. You get a new table with default fields and sample rows to help you get started.

After creating your table, start by adding fields. Choose from over 25 field types such as text, number, date, or file. You can also configure field properties like validation rules and default values to match your needs.

Next, add your data to rows, paste data from spreadsheets for quick bulk entry, or create forms to collect information directly from others.

Finally, organize your view to make your data easier to understand. Use sorting and filtering to focus on specific records, color-code rows for better visualization, and create custom views such as Kanban, Calendar, or Gallery layouts.

Method 2: Duplicate an existing table

Duplicating creates an exact copy of a table’s structure and data. Duplicating tables is useful when you need multiple versions of the same structure for different purposes.

This is perfect for reusing proven setups or creating templates for recurring projects, without altering the original. It’s also practical for generating client-specific tables from a master template or archiving data by duplicating and clearing the original table.

Step-by-step instructions

  1. In the sidebar, hover over the table you want to duplicate
  2. Click the vertical ellipsis ⋮ (three dots) that appears
  3. Select Duplicate from the menu
  4. The duplicate appears immediately below the original

What gets duplicated:

✅ All fields with their types and configurations
✅ All rows with complete data
✅ Views (Grid, Kanban, Calendar, etc.)
✅ Filters, sorts, and groupings
✅ Field formulas and dependencies
✅ File attachments

What doesn’t duplicate:

❌ Row comments and revision history
❌ Webhooks and automations

After duplicating a table, customize it to suit its new purpose. Start by renaming the table. Then, update any field values by clicking into the relevant cells to change data. If certain fields are unnecessary, delete unused fields. You can also reorder fields by dragging and dropping them to arrange columns in the order you prefer.

Clear sample data if you duplicated a template to reuse the structure. Delete all rows and start fresh while keeping the field configuration.

Method 3: Import from external files

Import existing data from spreadsheets or other formats to quickly populate Baserow tables. This method preserves your data while giving you Baserow’s powerful features.

Supported file formats

  • CSV files – Import CSV for simple comma-separated data
  • JSON files – Import JSON for structured data exports
  • XML files – Import XML for hierarchical data
  • Paste data – Copy and paste directly from spreadsheets

After import, review field types and adjust if needed. Baserow intelligently detects field types and creates appropriate fields, but you may want to refine them (e.g., converting text to date fields).

Learn more about how to create a table via import.

Method 4: Create via data sync

For advanced users, data sync creates tables that automatically update from external sources. This keeps your Baserow data synchronized with other systems without manual imports.

This is useful for connecting to APIs, databases, or services that change frequently and need real-time or scheduled synchronization.

Frequently asked questions

How many tables can I create in a database?

There’s no hard limit, but most databases work best with 5-15 tables. If you need more, consider whether some tables could be combined or if you should create separate databases for different projects. Performance remains excellent with properly organized tables.

What’s the difference between duplicating a table and creating a new one?

Duplicating copies an existing table’s complete structure and data; saving setup time when you need the same format. Creating a new table starts blank, giving you full control but requiring more initial configuration. Choose duplication for consistency, new tables for unique requirements.

Can I rename a table after creating it?

Yes, click the table name in the sidebar to edit it at any time. Renaming doesn’t affect data, views, or relationships; just the display name. Use descriptive names that clearly indicate what the table stores.

What happens if I duplicate a table with linked records?

Link to table fields are duplicated, but the links point to the original table’s records, not the duplicate. If you want completely independent tables, you’ll need to manually update or remove link fields after duplication.

Can I undo table creation if I make a mistake?

Yes, within 5 seconds of creating a table, an undo button appears at the bottom-right. After that window, you can delete the table which moves it to trash for recovery. This gives you safety nets against accidental creation.

Related content

Now that you’ve created your table, explore these features:

Build your table structure:

Add and organize data:

Customize your views:

Connect and collaborate:

Still need help? If you’re looking for something else, please feel free to make recommendations or ask us questions; we’re ready to assist you.