XML: Useful?

[warrens]

I like to save my personal messages and archive them before the box gets "full."

There are 3 choices, XML, CSV, and Text.

I know what text is. It works, but is "ugly" and contains no formatting. I'm not sure about CSV.

I know very little about XML. I just know that it is used (I think) when viewing "feeds," which I do not do.

What I would like to do is save my PM's and replies with HTML style formatting. Read them with some type of gui allowing "clickability."

But, when I save them as xml, the formatting is still goofy. No margins, and lots of extraneous "code" being displayed.

Is there software that will allow me to view an .xml file, stored on my computer, in a similar fashion to reading them on this board? With font formatting, etc? The ability to make them look "prettier," or better yet, the ability to click on individual messages to read? What is the value of .xml and .csv to the user?

I appreciate any help and will download any appropriate freeware that acts as a "viewer" for these formats.

warren

[nandm]

This may be more work but you could always cut and paste them to a word doc.

[Morning Glory]

I just tried saving as text and opening them with the basic programs I have on my computer and nothing helped. Word was the best.

This site allows you to convert files for free. You can play around with it and see if anything helps.

Zamzar - Free online file conversion

Highlighting, copying, and pasting in word maintains the formatting like nandm suggested, but you would have to do each one individually.