Can a workbook be unsaved from Microsoft Excel?

[redbeard52]

I think I already know this answer but I thought it might be worth a query to those who are more proficient with Excel (I consider myself a very basic user).

I was working with Excel and wanting to copy part of a workbook into another one and save it with a different name.  I made all the changes/deletions that I wanted to show in the new workbook (but keeping the original info in the original workbook) and then I hit "Save" instead of "Save As".  All of my original workbook information was lost (and it is really cruical).  Is there anyway to "unsave" a workbook.  I ran a search and the original document does appear but I can't go anywhere with it.  Help anyone?

[soybean]

I ran a search and the original document does appear but I can't go anywhere with it. 

Exactly what does that mean?  Can you open that "original document"?  Does it have your old data?

[CBMatt]

If you leave the workbook open, you can simply Undo (Ctrl + Z).  However, once you close it, I believe you are stuck with those changes.

[redbeard52]

First a very belated but heartfelt "Thank You" to Soybean and CB Matt.  Due to a family medical emergency, I've been away and unable to access my email until today.

To answer your question, Soybean; Yes, the workbook had old and very valuable data.  To CBMatt; Unfortunately, I had closed the workbook and could not use the "undo" or "Ctrl Z" feature.  I appreciate your attempts to help me but I feel this is a lost cause.  If either of you (or anyone else for that matter) can think of a way to recapture that old data, please let me know.

[CBMatt]

I hate to say it, but I don't think there's any way you can retrieve that old data at this point.  It might be possible that System Restore has an old copy of your file saved, but the chance of that is very low.  When working with important information, you should always save a backup copy (I've gotten into the habit of saving every spreadsheet under two different names).  And when you want to start a new workbook, always open up a new file instead of editing a pre-existing one.  I'm sorry, I wish I had a better solution for you.

[redbeard52]

To CBMatt:

Of course it's a lesson I learned too late, but I've now backed up all my workbooks and I'm considering your point of saving them under 2 seperate names.  That would be additional protection for any missteps I might make in the future.  Thanks again for your help and input.