You can do this with programming. There's a sample file he

http://www.contextures.com/excelfiles.html


Under Data Validation, look for 'DV0005 - Data Validation "Columns"'


Stephen Reid wrote:
Hi

I know how to create drop down lists in data validation but I am looking to
get a little extra. Currently I create a list in A1:A10 create a range name
for the list and then use that named range in the data validation screen.
However, what I want now is:

Create a list in A1:A10 and a description in B1:B10 for example:

A B
1001 Coffee
1002 Tea
1003 Hot Chocolate

I would like the to see both the name and the description in the drop down
but once selected only select the data from column A. Don't know if this
can be done, but any help would be appreciated.

Thanks
Stephen




--
Debra Dalgleish
Contextures
http://www.contextures.com/tiptech.html