basically, you would need to build your list in another location using
formulas, then reference that with your Data Validation using the List
option.

--
Regards,
Tom Ogilvy

"Nigel" wrote in message
oups.com...
so i have read about tons of different solutions regarding 1 of the
requirements for my drop down, but i cant seem to put them together to
get it to do what i need...

i am open to any solution that can provide...

a drop down list that does not show any duplicates
does not show any blank spaces
and allows me to type in the cell that the drop down is in....

i thought this would be the easiest part of my worksheet since i
thought it would be built into excel...
but its turned out to be the most difficult!

ANY HELP is greatly appreciated!!
TIA!