Try this:

For cells A1:A10

Select A1:A10 (with A1 as the active cell)
DataValidation
Allow: Custom
Formula: =COUNTIF($A$1:$A$10,A1)<=3
Click the [OK] button

That will allow the same entry in that range a maximum of 3 times.

Does that help?

***********
Regards,
Ron

XL2002, WinXP-Pro


"peaspud" wrote:

HI,
Is there a function in excel that alerts you if you have entered a number
(or word!) more than an agreed amount of times??
e.g. If you have agreed not to input the number 7 more than 3 times in a
selected range, but then do so, will excel inform you??
I know it sounds weird but im doing a dream team at work and i need as much
help as i can get!!
Thanks