Hi Olivo

Using Data Validation in Excel, you can't. You would need to use a Combo
Box.

I have written some code to aid navigation to all entries beginning with a
letter, using Data Validation.
There is an example file you can download at Debra Dalgleish's site

http://www.contextures.com/DataValHeadings.zip

Also, at Debra's site, you can find information on how to set up and Combo
Boxes instead
http://www.contextures.com/xlDataVal10.html

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Regards
Roger Govier

"Olivo" wrote in message
...
Excel 2003. drop down menu
how do i turn on the automatic feature that recognizes what i'm going to
type....type an "e" and everything starting with e drops below the menu
box?

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Olivo