Drop-downs allow people to pick an item from a list that you create. In a new worksheet, type the entries you want to appear in your drop-down list. Ideally, you'll have your list items in an Excel table. If you don't, then you can quickly convert your list to a table by selecting any cell in the range, and pressing Ctrl+T.

Jul 5, 2024 · Data validation allows you to control your input in a cell. When you have limited values to enter a field, you can use the drop-down lists to validate your data. You don’t have to enter data by typing again and again. The data validation list also ensures that your inputs are error-free. Select cell B5.

Drop-down lists in Excel are helpful if you want to be sure that users select an item from a list, instead of typing their own values. To create a drop-down list in Excel, execute the following steps. 1. On the second sheet, type the items you want to appear in the drop-down list.

After you create a drop-down list, you might want to add more items or delete items. In this article, we'll show you how to do that depending on how the list was created.

Mar 11, 2021 · Learn how to create a data list in Excel and how to use Excel's data tools to create, filter, and sort a list. Updated to include Excel 2019.

Apr 2, 2025 · There are several ways to populate list items when you create a dropdown list within your spreadsheet. The first method is the most basic where all items are entered in the Data Validation menu as a comma-separated list. Go to the Data tab and click on the Data Validation button in the Data Tools group. This will open the Data Validation menu.

Mar 25, 2025 · Step-by-Step Guide: Create a Data Validation List from Excel Table. Let’s walk through the process using a simple example. Suppose you have a list of countries you want to use in a dropdown list. Step 1: Convert Your Data into an Excel Table. To begin, make sure your data is formatted as an Excel table. Instructions:

Aug 9, 2018 · Bottom Line: The complete Excel guide on how to create drop-down lists in cells (data validation lists). Includes keyboard shortcuts to select items, copying drop-downs to other cells, handling invalid inputs, updating lists with new items, and more. Skill Level: Beginner. If playback doesn't begin shortly, try restarting your device.

Mar 17, 2025 · Step 2: Create the Drop-Down List. Select the cell(s) where you want to apply the drop-down list. Navigate to Data > Data Validation.; Under Allow, choose List.; In the Source field, select the list of values from Column A.; Click OK to finalize the drop-down list.; Step 3: Using the Searchable Drop-Down List

Jan 4, 2025 · Excel Data Validation is a powerful tool that allows users to control the type of data that can be entered into a cell or range of cells. One of the most useful features of Data Validation is the ability to create drop-down lists, which can help to reduce errors and make data entry more efficient. In this tutorial, we will explore 7 different ...