# Getting Started with Astera Dataprep

For you to begin preparing your data, there are some essential steps to complete before you can load files and start cleaning them. It is necessary to have a project created and a Dataprep document open within that project.

### Video

{% embed url="<https://youtu.be/QBgOaZXuS3I?si=h33k9H3T_mUJXfIp>" %}

### Step 1: Create a New Project

* You can ask the *Dataprep agent* to create a new project for you. Provide the agent with the folder path where you want to create your project.

<figure><img src="/files/czrcLaKgRpQGE3aOBClA" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

* Alternatively, go to *Project > New > Integration Project*, enter a name, and select a location to save it.

<figure><img src="/files/Y77oR58Z0Ovkm6z3E6BE" alt="" width="563"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

### Step 2: Create a Dataprep Document

1. Within the project, create a Dataprep document.&#x20;
2. To create a data prep document you can simply ask the *Dataprep agent*, or right click the *Project* tab and selecting *Add New Item.*

<figure><img src="/files/KAI0jf7jKqAVNbk6GlPz" alt="" width="563"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

3. On the *Add New Item* window select Dataprep and click the *Add* button.

<figure><img src="/files/IWC6zXBZJHZ9UHVGbqEm" alt="" width="563"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

### Step 3: Upload Files to Cloud Storage

1. Open the *Data Source Browser*.
2. Navigate to *Cloud Storage* and upload the files you want to work with.

<figure><img src="/files/0xAhdn4X7vhCTsnKhxvl" alt="" width="320"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

3. Once the files have been uploaded, they will be visible in you project folder, ready for you to use in your Dataprep document.

<figure><img src="/files/XO7pKR7nArYNhdxn3nc9" alt="" width="306"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

### Step 4: Load Files into a Dataprep Document

* Ask the *Dataprep agent* to load the file into your Dataprep document, or
* Drag and drop the file from *Cloud Storage* onto the Dataprep canvas. To learn more click [here](/dataprep/reading-sources.md).

Once the file is loaded, it will appear in the *Preview Grid*, where you can begin cleaning, transforming, and organizing your data.

<figure><img src="/files/VZXPzHkvI2eZE3ThiqLh" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>


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