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How to restrict cell input to a date range in Excel and Google Sheets
Excel & Google Sheets
=AND(A2>=B$1, A2<=C$1)✓
Verified example
Computed by a real spreadsheet engine on the sample data below.
| Start Date | End Date | Input Date |
| 2023-01-01 | 2023-12-31 | 2023-06-15 |
=AND(A2>=B$1, A2<=C$1)→FALSE
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Step by step
- 1Select the cell or range where you want to restrict date input.
- 2Go to Data > Data Validation in Excel or Data > Data validation in Google Sheets.
- 3Set the criteria to 'Date' and specify the minimum and maximum dates in the respective fields.
- 4Click OK to apply the settings.
Tips
- Ensure your date format matches the locale settings of your spreadsheet application.
- Test the validation by entering dates outside the specified range to see the error message.
- Use absolute references (e.g., $B$1) in formulas to maintain consistency across copied cells.
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Frequently asked
What happens if a user enters a date outside the allowed range?
The user will receive an error message and won't be able to proceed until they enter a valid date.
Can I use this method to restrict times as well?
Yes, by setting the criteria to 'Time' instead of 'Date', you can restrict time inputs similarly.
Is there a way to allow multiple date ranges?
No direct support for multiple date ranges, but you can use custom formulas with AND/OR logic to achieve this.