Excel 2013 – How to create drop down lists

A drop down list allows you to enter data into an Excel spreadsheet from a pre-set list of entries. This can be done to make data entry easier or to limit the number of acceptable choices.

MSExcel2010-DropDownList1

Please note: To create a drop down list the file type needs to be .xlsx.

If your file does not end with .xlsx:

  1. Select the ‘File’ menu then ‘Save As’

MSExcel2010-DropDownList2

  1. Ensure that the ‘Save as type’ is ‘Excel Workbook (*.xlsx)’ and save the document.

MSExcel2010-DropDownList3

The following instructions detail how to create a drop down list in Excel 2010:

  1. Select a new sheet (e.g. ‘Sheet2′) and enter in your drop down list options

MSExcel2010-DropDownList4

  1. Go back to your original sheet (e.g. ‘Sheet1′) and select the fields you need to be a drop down list field

MSExcel2010-DropDownList5

  1. Select the ‘Data’ ribbon from the top menu then ‘Data Validation’
  1. Under ‘Allow’ select ‘List’
  2. Click on the icon next to ‘Source’
  3. Navigation to your list (e.g. Sheet2), select the list and click on the icon again


MSExcel2010-DropDownList6

  1. Select ‘OK’ to save the changes

Tagged in

2 comments on “Excel 2013 – How to create drop down lists

  1. I would like to thank you for the efforts you’ve put in writing this website. I’m hoping the same high-grade blog post from you in the upcoming as well. In fact your creative writing abilities has inspired me to get my own website now. Really the blogging is spreading its wings rapidly. Your write up is a good example of it.

  2. F*ckin’ remarkable issues here. I’m very glad to see your article. Thank you so much and i am having a look forward to touch you. Will you please drop me a e-mail?

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *