# Create a Table in Baserow - Blank, Duplicate, or Import

> A new Baserow table can start empty, as a duplicate of one that already works, or straight from an imported spreadsheet - whichever saves the most setup time.

Source: https://opennix.org/en/docs/baserow/tables/create-a-table/


Whenever a new table is needed, Baserow gives three starting points: a blank table, a duplicate of an existing table's full structure and data, or an import from a CSV, Excel, JSON, or XML file - pick whichever matches the task at hand.

## Overview

Creating a table takes seconds, whether starting fresh, copying an existing structure, or importing from CSV, Excel, JSON, or XML. A blank table suits a custom project, duplication suits repeatable setups, and import suits migrating data that already exists elsewhere.

## Ways to Create a Table

| Method | Best for | Starting point |
|---|---|---|
| New blank table | Custom projects with unique requirements | An empty table with default fields |
| Duplicate an existing table | Repeating a proven structure | A copy of the table's structure and data |
| Import from a file | Migrating spreadsheet data | Your existing CSV, Excel, JSON, or XML file |

Moving or duplicating a table preserves all views (including forms), formulas, and field configurations.

### Method 1: Create a Blank Table

Start with an empty table when building a custom structure from scratch - this gives full control over field types and organization.

Step-by-step:

1. Open a [database](/docs/baserow/database-builder/intro-to-databases/) in the sidebar.
2. Click **+ New table** at the bottom of the table list.
3. Enter a descriptive name (for example, "Customers," "Tasks," "Inventory").
4. Select **Start with a new table**.
5. Click **Add table** - the new table comes with default fields and sample rows.

After creating the table, add the fields the project needs from over [25 field types](/docs/baserow/fields/baserow-field-overview/): text, number, date, file, and more. Then add data, [paste it in from a spreadsheet](/docs/baserow/rows/paste-data-into-baserow-table/) for fast bulk entry, or build a [form](/docs/baserow/view-types/guide-to-creating-forms-in-baserow/) to collect information from people outside the table. Finally, set up [sorting and filtering](/docs/baserow/views/filters-in-baserow/) to make the data easier to work with.

### Method 2: Duplicate an Existing Table

Duplicating creates an exact copy of a table's structure and data - useful when several versions of the same structure are needed for different purposes, such as reusing a proven setup or building a template for a recurring project.

Step-by-step:

1. Hover over the table in the sidebar.
2. Click the vertical ellipsis `⋮`.
3. Select **Duplicate** - the copy appears right below the original.

**What gets duplicated:** all fields with their types and configurations, all rows with complete data, views (grid, gallery, form), filters, sorts and groupings, field formulas, and file attachments.

**What does not get duplicated:** row revision history and webhook configuration.

After duplicating, rename the table for its new purpose, update field values as needed, and remove or reorder any [unneeded fields](/docs/baserow/fields/field-customization/).

### Method 3: Import from an External File

[Importing existing data](/docs/baserow/tables/create-a-table-via-import/) from a spreadsheet or another format quickly populates a Baserow table while preserving the data and giving access to the platform's full feature set. Supported formats include CSV, JSON, and XML files as well as direct paste from a spreadsheet. Baserow detects field types automatically during import, and they can always be refined afterward.

## Frequently Asked Questions

**How many tables can I create in a database?** There is no hard limit, but most databases work best with 5-15 tables.

**What is the difference between duplicating a table and creating a new one?** Duplicating copies an existing structure and data, saving setup time. A new table starts blank, requiring more initial configuration but offering full control.

**Can I rename a table after creating it?** Yes, the table name in the sidebar can be edited at any time - renaming does not affect data, views, or relationships with other tables.

**Can I move or duplicate a table to another database?** No, duplication only works within the same database. To move a table elsewhere, export it as CSV and import it into the target database.

**What happens when I duplicate a table with linked records?** Link-to-table fields are duplicated, but they still point to the original table's records rather than the duplicates. For fully independent tables, update the links manually afterward.

**Can I undo table creation?** Yes, an undo button appears for 5 seconds right after creation. After that, the table can be [deleted](/docs/baserow/tables/delete-a-table/) and recovered from trash.

Next, read [Create a Table via Import](/docs/baserow/tables/create-a-table-via-import/) for a closer look at supported formats and the step-by-step import process.