How to Access Multiple Columns in a Table Values List

Table values lists are used in Access table lookups. They provide drop-down lists for users as they input data. This feature gives you more control over what type of information is entered into your database. Lists can be created while viewing your table in the datasheet view. Use multiple columns in a table values list when you want users to see additional row values in the drop-down list instead of just a single cell.

Instructions

1. Open Access 2010 and select a database. Click the "File" tab and select one of the databases in the recently used databases in the File menu.

2. Open a table from the Navigation Pane. Click the column header "Click To Add" in the next available column. Select "Lookup & Relationship." Select "I want the lookup field to get the values from another table or query." Click "Next."

3. Select the table or query that contains the values that will appear in the drop-down list. Click "Next." Select the fields that you want to appear in the drop-down list by clicking the field names and the ">" arrow. Click "Next." If you want to sort your drop-down list by values in the table, click the field name and select the "Ascending" button. Click "Next."

4. Review the width of the columns that will display the drop-down list. If necessary, widen the columns by dragging the column header borders to the right. Click "Finish."

5. Click in the newly created drop-down list in the column. Notice the multiple columns that appear from the table values list.

References

• Store Multiple Values In A Lookup Field

Resources

• Microsoft: Excel How To & Help