How To Add a Drop Down List in Google Sheets Using Existing Data

Adding a drop-down list in Google Sheets using existing data involves using the “Data validation” feature. Here are step-by-step instructions:

1. Open your Google Sheets document:
   • Go to Google Sheets (sheets.google.com) and open the spreadsheet where you want to add the drop-down list.
2. Select the Cell or Range:
   • Click on the cell or range of cells where you want to create the drop-down list. This is where users will be able to select from the options.
3. Go to the “Data” Menu:
   • In the top menu, click on the “Data” option.
4. Choose “Data validation”:
   • From the dropdown menu, select “Data validation.”
5. Set up Data Validation:
   • In the data validation dialog box that appears, you’ll find various options.
     • Cell range: Make sure the cell range is set to the range you selected in step 2.
     • Criteria: Choose “List of items.”
     • List of items: If your data is in a range, click the cell icon next to “List of items” and select the range of cells containing your data.
6. Save:
   • Click on “Save” to apply the data validation.
7. Test the Drop-down List:
   • Now, when you click on the cell or cells you selected, you should see a small drop-down arrow. Click on it, and you’ll see the list of items you specified.
8. Optional: Allow invalid data:
   • If you want to allow users to enter values other than the ones in the drop-down list, you can uncheck the “Reject input” option in the data validation settings.

That’s it! You have successfully added a drop-down list in Google Sheets using existing data. Users can now choose from the provided options in the drop-down menu.