How do you add a drop-down list in Excel?

Hi! Adding a drop-down in Excel is easier than it looks. Here’s how I usually do it: First, type out the list of choices somewhere in your sheet (like in a hidden column or a separate tab). Then, select the cell where you want the drop-down. Go to the Data tab on the ribbon and click on Data Validation. In the pop-up window, under “Allow,” select List. For the source, either highlight your list of values or manually type them separated by commas. Once you hit OK, your drop-down should be active! If you’re on Mac or Excel Online, the process is pretty much the same—it’s just that the ribbon layout may look slightly different. Pro tip: if you think you’ll add new options later, it’s better to link your source list to a named range. That way, updating the drop-down is as simple as updating your range.

Data Validation is the tool you need. Use “List” as the type, then either type options directly or reference a range. That’s all—it’ll give you a tidy drop-down in seconds.

Hey, just use Data Validation with “List.” Enter your choices, and Excel creates the drop-down. Simple, neat, and keeps people from typing mistakes.