xlsxwriter' object has no attribute 'save'

2 min read 09-03-2025

The error "AttributeError: 'xlsxwriter' object has no attribute 'save'" in Python when using the xlsxwriter library is a common issue stemming from incorrect usage of the workbook object. This article will guide you through understanding the error and provide solutions to fix it.

Understanding the Error

The xlsxwriter library doesn't have a save() method directly on the xlsxwriter object itself. The save() method is a function of the workbook object that you create using xlsxwriter.Workbook(). This error arises when you attempt to call save() on the library's module instead of the workbook instance.

Common Causes and Solutions

Here are the most frequent reasons for encountering this error, along with detailed explanations and fixes:

1. Incorrect Object Reference

This is the most prevalent cause. You're likely calling save() on the xlsxwriter module itself, not the workbook you created.

Incorrect Code:

import xlsxwriter

xlsxwriter.save('my_excel_file.xlsx') # Incorrect: Calling save on the module

Correct Code:

import xlsxwriter

workbook = xlsxwriter.Workbook('my_excel_file.xlsx') # Create workbook object
# ... your code to add data to the workbook ...
workbook.close() # Close and save the workbook

Notice the crucial difference: we create a workbook object using xlsxwriter.Workbook(), and then use the close() method on that object. The close() method automatically handles saving the Excel file. There is no explicit save() function associated directly with the xlsxwriter library itself.

2. Forgetting to Create a Workbook Object

Before you can write data and save the file, you must create a Workbook object. Without this, there's nothing to save.

Incorrect Code:

import xlsxwriter

worksheet = xlsxwriter.Worksheet() # This is not how you create a worksheet
# ... adding data (will likely cause errors)...
xlsxwriter.close() # incorrect object to call close()

Correct Code:

import xlsxwriter

workbook = xlsxwriter.Workbook('my_excel_file.xlsx')
worksheet = workbook.add_worksheet() # Correct: Add worksheet to the workbook
# ... your code to add data to the worksheet ...
workbook.close() # Correct: close the workbook

Remember that add_worksheet() is a method of the workbook object, not the xlsxwriter module.

3. Typographical Errors

Simple typos can lead to this error. Double-check your variable names and method names for any mistakes. Ensure that Workbook, add_worksheet, and close are spelled correctly. Case sensitivity matters in Python.

4. Incorrect File Path

Make sure the file path you're providing to xlsxwriter.Workbook() is correct and accessible. If the path is incorrect or you lack write permissions, xlsxwriter might not be able to create the file, leading to subtle errors that may manifest as the 'save' attribute error.

Best Practices

Always use workbook.close(): This is the recommended way to save your Excel file. It handles all necessary cleanup and ensures data is written correctly. Avoid explicitly using a save() function.
Explicitly handle exceptions: Wrap your xlsxwriter code in a try-except block to catch potential errors, such as file permission issues, and handle them gracefully.
Read the documentation: The official xlsxwriter documentation is an excellent resource. Refer to it for the correct usage of all functions and methods.

By following these guidelines and carefully reviewing your code, you can effectively resolve the "AttributeError: 'xlsxwriter' object has no attribute 'save'" error and successfully create and save your Excel files using xlsxwriter.