How to Add Drop-down List in Microsoft Excel

Quick summary

A drop-down list in Microsoft Excel is created using the Data Validation feature, which restricts cell input to a predefined set of options. This step-by-step walkthrough shows exactly how to configure the List option in the Data Validation dialog to add a functional drop-down to any cell.

Steps

1. Click the cell where you want the drop-down list to appear.
2. Click the Data tab and select Data Validation.
3. In the dialog box, under Allow, choose List.
4. Add your list items in the Source field.
5. Select the cells in Excel that already contain your list values.
6. Once all items are added, click OK to confirm.
7. Your drop-down list will now appear in the selected cell.