# Can I select only the columns needed for my analysis to import into RStudio? FinnGen data is not only available as flat files, but also available via the database BigQuery in two formats * the same format as the longitudinal data file * the OHDSI Common Data Model formatted (this format also has the advantage that other side data -births, height, weight, smoking, kidney dialysis - is mapped into it) Addressing the data via BigQuery will be much faster and lower memory than using the flat file. If you want to continue with the flatfile, the following tips may help. FinnGen files take up a lot of memory, so it's advisable to understand what you're importing beforehand and will save you time and hassle. You can select what columns you'd like to import for your analysis (e.g. in the Sandbox Terminal Emulator) and save them in your working directory using a command like: `zcat /path/yourFileName.txt.gz | cut -f 1,3,10-50,80 | gzip > selectedColumns.txt.gz` This command selects columns 1, 3, from 10 to 50, and 80 from "yourFileName.txt.gz" and exports them to a new gzipped file. --- # Agent Instructions: Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter: ``` GET https://docs.finngen.fi/faq/about-finngen-data/can-i-select-only-the-columns-needed-for-my-analysis-to-import-into-rstudio.md?ask= ``` The question should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.