> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://support.pears.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://support.pears.io/engage/direct-contacts/export.md).

# Export

The Direct Contacts export generates an Excel (.xlsx) workbook containing your direct contact records, including demographic breakdowns and contact method totals.

## Getting Started

To export direct contacts, navigate to the Direct Contacts list under the **Engage** menu and click the **Export** button. The export includes all direct contacts matching your current filters.

![Screenshot: The Direct Contacts list view with the Export button highlighted and active filter options for reporting period, unit, and program area visible above the records table](/files/rNw7sBgupwnf5IyrgSiY)

{% hint style="info" %}
**TIP:** Apply filters before exporting to limit the results to a specific reporting period, unit, or program area. Large exports are processed in the background and you will receive an email when the file is ready to download.
{% endhint %}

## Workbook Structure

The export workbook contains the following worksheet:

* **Codebook** — Describes each column in the workbook and provides notes about the exported data.
* **Direct Contact Data** — One row per direct contact record with fields including the reporting user, organization, reporting periods, unit, program areas, linked action plans, date range, total contacts, contact method breakdowns (in person, phone, email, video conference, social media, text, other), and demographic breakdowns by gender, age, ethnicity, and race.