What is MIME type "text/csv"?

A MIME type is a string that tells browsers and other tools how to handle a particular kind of file.

text/csv denotes files that store data as plain text in a table-like format. Data values are usually separated by commas. This format is common for exchanging structured data between applications.
Files using this MIME type, like CSV, are easy to open in text editors and spreadsheet programs.

Main use: Exchanging tabular data between software like databases and spreadsheets.
Other uses: Import/export tasks, data reporting, and email attachments.
Often processed via web servers to deliver simple data files.
Defined in part by RFC 4180, though variations exist.

This MIME type helps systems recognize the file structure so data can be parsed correctly.

Associated file extensions

csv

Usage Examples

HTTP Header

When serving content with this MIME type, set the Content-Type header:


    Content-Type: audio/ogg

HTML

In HTML, you can specify the MIME type in various elements:


    <a href="file.dat" type="text/csv">Download file</a>

Server-side (Node.js)

Setting the Content-Type header in Node.js:


    const http = require('http');
    
    http.createServer((req, res) => {
      res.setHeader('Content-Type', 'text/plain');
      res.end('Content here');
    }).listen(3000);

Associated file extensions

csv

FAQ

What is a MIME type?

A MIME (Multipurpose Internet Mail Extensions) type is a standard that indicates the nature and format of a document, file, or assortment of bytes. MIME types are defined and standardized in IETF's RFC 6838.

MIME types are important because they help browsers and servers understand how to process a file. When a browser receives a file from a server, it uses the MIME type to determine how to display or handle the content, whether it's an image to display, a PDF to open in a viewer, or a video to play.

MIME types consist of a type and a subtype, separated by a slash (e.g., text/html, image/jpeg, application/pdf). Some MIME types also include optional parameters.

How do I find the MIME type for a file?

You can check the file extension or use a file identification tool such as file --mime-type on the command line. Many programming languages also provide libraries to detect MIME types.

Why are multiple MIME types listed for one extension?

Different applications and historical conventions may use alternative MIME identifiers for the same kind of file. Showing them all helps ensure compatibility across systems.