#Every other cell g docs how to

If you want to create a drop-down list from values already in your Google Sheet, select “List from a range” and identify the range of values that should be included in the drop-down.

If you need to write your own list of drop-down options, select “List of items.” Separate each item by a comma and then press save.

First, select the column, row, or set of cells where you’d like to create a drop-down list.

Many users have also found the drop-down list a helpful feature for program management as it can clearly track the status of any project.

#Every other cell g docs how to

How to create a drop-down list using data validation

Make certain that the “Show dropdown list in cell” is checked.

In the Data Validation box, select the Criteria as “List from a range” and specify the cells that contain the names.

Select the cell where you want to create the rule and go to Data –> Data Validation.

Follow these tips for a foolproof way to create this type of validation. Many users have struggled with creating dynamic data validation in the Google Sheets software.

If you enter data in a cell that doesn’t match an item on the list you created, you will see a warning.

Select the cell or cells where you would like to create a drop-down list.

How Do You Use Data Validation in Google Sheets?įollow these easy-to-follow steps in order to validate your data using the data validation features in google sheets. Instead of writing in their state name (which can take on many different forms and misspellings), they must select their state from a drop-down list. Say you’re asking a group of users to enter their addresses. Google Sheets data validation is also helpful in preventing misspellings or unwanted values by restricting users to select from a drop-down list or a specific range. Setting a data validation parameter in the “year” cell would ensure that if a date was entered for a purchase made before 2020, that value would also be flagged or rejected. In another instance, let’s say you’re entering a list of purchases made in 2020. If a number greater than 100 is entered, you can have Google Sheets either 1) flag that value, indicating that it is outside of your data validation range or 2) reject that input. You may want to set a data validation parameter in the grade cell that requires any inputted number to be within the range of 0 through 100. Data Validation in Google Sheets allows you to set certain parameters around numbers, dates, and text that prevent you from making input errors.įor example, say you’re inputting exam grades each grade into one cell next to the student’s name.

As much as you’re careful about the words you write (or the data you input), it’s always good to have someone check your work and your data. Why data validation mattersĭata validation is like the analytic version of copyediting.

Let’s take a closer look at building a drop-down list using data validation in Google Sheets. Still, many of its best features go undiscovered. Google Sheets is one of the most widely-used spreadsheet tools.