data entry with drop down lists
 

I would like to creat a drop down list where user can select specified text,
however, I would also like the user to type other entries. I don't
necessarily want to completly restirct data imput, but I want to make easier
for user.


I've created an error message that explains to the user how to add their
entry to the list, but I'd like to make easier where they can either select
from drop down list or enter their own entry.

Thanks

Cyrus

data entry with drop down lists
 

In the process of setting up the Data Validation in that cell, there is a
tab labeled "Error Alert". Click on that tab. You will then see the
statement ""Show error alert after invalid data is entered." with a checkbox
to the left. Uncheck that checkbox. Now the user will see the drop-down
list as before but he can enter something else if he wants to. HTH Otto
"Cyrus" wrote in message
...
I would like to creat a drop down list where user can select specified
text,
however, I would also like the user to type other entries. I don't
necessarily want to completly restirct data imput, but I want to make
easier
for user.


I've created an error message that explains to the user how to add their
entry to the list, but I'd like to make easier where they can either
select
from drop down list or enter their own entry.

Thanks

Cyrus

data entry with drop down lists
 

Two steps that may help; both are changes in the Data Validation setup...
First, on the Error Alert tab, clear the checkbox labeled 'Show error...'
Second, create a prompt using the Input Message tab. Select the 'Show input
message' checkbox, and enter the prompt in the 'Input Message' textbox,
something like Choose from the list provided or type your own value.
Now when the input cell is selected, they'll get the prompt, and the
drop-down making it easy to select one of the pre-defined values.
HTH. --Bruce

"Cyrus" wrote:

I would like to creat a drop down list where user can select specified text,
however, I would also like the user to type other entries. I don't
necessarily want to completly restirct data imput, but I want to make easier
for user.


I've created an error message that explains to the user how to add their
entry to the list, but I'd like to make easier where they can either select
from drop down list or enter their own entry.

Thanks

Cyrus

data entry with drop down lists
 

WOW! So helpful. One more question - Is there a way to always display the
drop down arrow without placing mouse over cell? I know I can Go To and tell
Excel to show me all Data Validations, but I'd really like the drop down
arrow to always appear - similar to the auto filer arrow.

"bpeltzer" wrote:

Two steps that may help; both are changes in the Data Validation setup...
First, on the Error Alert tab, clear the checkbox labeled 'Show error...'
Second, create a prompt using the Input Message tab. Select the 'Show input
message' checkbox, and enter the prompt in the 'Input Message' textbox,
something like Choose from the list provided or type your own value.
Now when the input cell is selected, they'll get the prompt, and the
drop-down making it easy to select one of the pre-defined values.
HTH. --Bruce

"Cyrus" wrote:

I would like to creat a drop down list where user can select specified text,
however, I would also like the user to type other entries. I don't
necessarily want to completly restirct data imput, but I want to make easier
for user.


I've created an error message that explains to the user how to add their
entry to the list, but I'd like to make easier where they can either select
from drop down list or enter their own entry.

Thanks

Cyrus

data entry with drop down lists
 

Cyrus

You can use a combobox for your dropdown. It will remain visible.

See Debra Dalgleish's site for help on this.

http://www.contextures.on.ca/xlDataVal11.html

Also, if you're going to adding to your list you should make the list a
dynamic range so new entries are included.

Debra's site also shows how to do that.

http://www.contextures.on.ca/xlNames01.html#Dynamic


Gord Dibben Excel MVP

On Fri, 23 Dec 2005 08:07:02 -0800, "Cyrus"
wrote:

WOW! So helpful. One more question - Is there a way to always display the
drop down arrow without placing mouse over cell? I know I can Go To and tell
Excel to show me all Data Validations, but I'd really like the drop down
arrow to always appear - similar to the auto filer arrow.

"bpeltzer" wrote:

Two steps that may help; both are changes in the Data Validation setup...
First, on the Error Alert tab, clear the checkbox labeled 'Show error...'
Second, create a prompt using the Input Message tab. Select the 'Show input
message' checkbox, and enter the prompt in the 'Input Message' textbox,
something like Choose from the list provided or type your own value.
Now when the input cell is selected, they'll get the prompt, and the
drop-down making it easy to select one of the pre-defined values.
HTH. --Bruce

"Cyrus" wrote:

I would like to creat a drop down list where user can select specified text,
however, I would also like the user to type other entries. I don't
necessarily want to completly restirct data imput, but I want to make easier
for user.


I've created an error message that explains to the user how to add their
entry to the list, but I'd like to make easier where they can either select
from drop down list or enter their own entry.

Thanks

Cyrus