We have discussed importing data for use with a model. It is also possible to import data without having a model to use it with, so that you can examine the data inside of Vensim. To do this, first go through the importation process for the data as described above. Then select the File>Open Model command and for file types select Datasets (Runs). Select the dataset you have imported and click on Open.
When you load data in this manner Vensim creates an empty model containing the names in the data file, with empty equations for each name. Vensim also loads the dataset for analysis. You can use the Variable Selection control to select data series into the workbench and create graphs or tables.
You can also use the Sketch tool to create hypothetical causal relationships and do causal tracing on the data. For example, suppose that your data contains value for profit, revenue and cost. You can use the Model Variable tool 
and add each of these to the sketch, then join them up to form:
If you now select profit into the workbench and ask for a Causes Strip graph you will see a graph of the data for profit, with graphs of the data for cost and revenue below.
If you load a dataset containing subscripted variables in this manner, you will likely see subscript range names such as RANGE0 and RANGE1. These are automatically created by Vensim during the data importation process. Though the Subscript Range names may be obscure, the Element names will be those from the original file.
