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How to create a drop-down list in Excel and Google Sheets
Topic:Data cleaning & shapingExcel & Google Sheets
=IFERROR(MATCH(A2,{"Yes","No","Maybe"},0),"Invalid")✓
Verified example
Computed by a real spreadsheet engine on the sample data below.
| Response | Valid? |
| Yes | |
| No | |
| Maybe | |
| Yes | |
| No |
=IFERROR(MATCH(A2,{"Yes","No","Maybe"},0),"Invalid")→1
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Step by step
- 1Select the cell(s) where you want the drop-down.
- 2Excel: Data tab → Data Validation → Allow: List → Source: type Yes,No,Maybe (comma-separated) or select a range of cells. Sheets: Data → Data Validation → Criteria: List of items, type your options.
- 3Click OK. A drop-down arrow appears in the cell. Users can only select from the defined list (optionally you can allow other input with a warning).
Tips
- Store your list options in a dedicated range (e.g., a 'Lists' sheet) and reference that range as the source — when you add or remove options in the list, the drop-down updates automatically.
Need it for your exact data?
Describe your columns in plain English and get the precise formula for your sheet, with the right Excel or Sheets syntax.
Frequently asked
Can I make a drop-down that changes based on another cell's selection (dependent drop-down)?
Yes — use INDIRECT to reference a named range whose name matches the parent selection: Source =INDIRECT(A1) where A1 contains a category that matches a named range.
How do I remove a drop-down list?
Select the cell, go to Data Validation, and click Clear All (Excel) or Remove Validation (Sheets).
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