formatcsv

formatcsv is a command-line utility designed for manipulating and reformatting Comma Separated Value (CSV) files. It allows users to easily change the structure of CSV data without needing to write complex scripts or use spreadsheet software. The primary function of formatcsv is to select specific columns, reorder them, add new columns with default values, and remove unwanted columns. This makes it useful for tasks such as preparing data for import into different systems, cleaning datasets, or generating reports with specific column layouts.

The tool typically operates by taking an input CSV file and applying a set of user-defined rules to produce a new, formatted CSV file. These rules can be specified through command-line arguments. For example, a user might instruct formatcsv to keep only the first and third columns, then place a new column named "Status" with the value "Active" for all rows. It can also handle different delimiter characters, although its name implies a focus on CSV.

formatcsv is particularly valuable in data processing pipelines where automation is key. Instead of manually opening and editing files, system administrators and data analysts can integrate formatcsv into shell scripts to automate repetitive data transformation tasks. Its simplicity and direct approach to column manipulation make it an efficient solution for common CSV data preparation needs. The utility is often found in environments where command-line tools are preferred for their speed and scriptability.