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How to Make a Drop Down List in

Excel

Using a Drop Down ListAdd drop down lists in Excel to make data entry easier.

•Save time•Prevent errors•Restrict entries

1. Type List of Items

Type a list of the items for the drop down list.

2. Create a TableChange the list to a named table:

1. Select cell in list2. Click Insert tab3. Click Table

2b. Create a TableCheck the Table settings

1. Check data range

2. Check mark for headers

3. Click OK

3. Name the List DataCreate a named range from the list:

1. Click heading cell to select the list items

3b. Name the List Data

1. Click in the Name Box2. Type a one-word

name3. Press Enter

4. Select Drop Down List CellsSelect all the cells where you want the drop down list

5. Start Data ValidationThe Data Validation feature is used to create the drop down lists.

1. On Ribbon, click Data tab

2. Click Data Validation command

6. Allow a ListUse the Data Validation List feature

1. Under “Allow”, click drop down arrow.

2. Click on List

7. Select List SourceSelect the source for the drop down list:

1. Click in Source Box2. Press F3 on

keyboard

8. Select Name

1. In Paste Name box, click list name

2. Click OK

9. Close Data Validation

Click OK to close Data Validation window

10. Click in a Cell

1. Click in one of the drop down list cells

2. Click the drop down arrow

11. Select List Item

1. Click on a list item, to select it

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