How to Insert Drop Down Boxes in Cells in Microsoft Excel 2007

Insert drop-down boxes in Excel 2007 to simplify data entry.

Microsoft Excel 2007 offers a variety of data entry options, one of which is the ability to input data via a drop-down box inserted directly in the spreadsheet. With assistance from the Data Validation tool, a user can create a list of predetermined entries or options and choose which cell the drop-down box will be active in, allowing an easier way to input recurring data throughout the spreadsheet.

Instructions

1. Open Microsoft Excel 2007.

2. Type the data or names that you want to appear in the drop-down list in an empty column. You can choose any column as long as you don't use it for your other data.

3. Click the "Data" menu tab and click "Data Validation" from the list of options available.

4. Click the 'Settings" tab and select "List" from the drop-down box titled "Allow." In the "Source" box, type the cell range (i.e., A1:A5) for where the list appears or click the button to the right of the box and select the cells with your mouse.

5. Click the check box to select "In-cell dropdown." Click "OK" once you have finished. An arrow appears next to the cell you originally chose, allowing you to input data from a list of choices.

References

• Microsoft: Create a Drop-Down List From a Range of Cells
• Home and Learn: Drop Down Lists in Excel 2007