Chapter 5 · 5.10
Data validation and drop-down lists
With data validation, you decide what can be entered in a cell. This helps prevent mistakes, such as a typo in a package name. A drop-down list is the handiest option: the user picks from a fixed set of values.
Creating a drop-down list
- Select the cells, for example the Package column.
- On the Data tab, click Data Validation.
- Under Allow, choose List.
- In the Source field, type the options separated by semicolons: Nextcloud Personal;Nextcloud Family;Nextcloud Max. Or refer to cells that contain the options, for example =$K$2:$K$4.
- Click OK. Each cell now shows an arrow with the available options.
Other rules
Under Allow, you can also choose Whole number, Decimal, Date picker, Time or Text length, with a minimum and maximum. This way, you can prevent things like a negative number or a date in the future.
On the Input message tab, you can add an explanation that appears when someone selects the cell. Under Error alert, you decide what happens if someone enters something incorrect: block the entry, show a warning, or just provide information.
Tip: you can create a tick list even faster using Check box on the Insert tab. See Een afvinklijst met selectievakjes in een spreadsheet.