How to Add Data Validation in Excel? A Useful Guide

In this article, you will learn about how to add data validation in Excel application to to set specific rules for what can or cannot be entered into a cell—whether it’s limiting numeric input to a defined range or ensuring text adheres to certain criteria. Data validation in Excel not only acts as a vigilant gatekeeper but also empowers you to wield the finesse of custom messages when an entry veers off course. Join us as we unravel the steps to seamlessly integrate data validation into your spreadsheet repertoire, offering you a powerful tool to enhance accuracy and streamline data management with ease.

What is Add Data Validation in Excel?

Data validation is a feature in Microsoft Excel and other spreadsheet software that allows users to define specific rules and constraints for the type and range of data that can be entered into a cell or range of cells. These rules help ensure the accuracy, consistency, and reliability of data by preventing users from entering invalid or inappropriate information. Examples of data validation rules include restricting entries to a certain numerical range, allowing only dates within a specified period, or ensuring that text entries meet specific criteria. When users attempt to input data that violates the established rules, data validation can prompt error messages, guiding them to correct and conform to the predefined criteria. This feature plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of spreadsheets and fostering efficient data management practices.

Create a data validation rule:

Certainly! Here are the steps to add data validation in Excel:

1. Open Your Excel Spreadsheet:
   Launch Microsoft Excel and open the spreadsheet where you want to apply data validation.
2. Select the Cell or Range:
   Click on the cell or select the range of cells where you want to add data validation.
3. Go to the “Data” Tab:
   Navigate to the “Data” tab in the Excel ribbon at the top of the screen.
4. Click on “Data Validation”:
   In the “Data Tools” group, locate and click on the “Data Validation” button.
5. Choose Validation Criteria:
   These various data validation criteria empower users to control the type and range of data entered into cells, enhancing accuracy and consistency in Excel spreadsheets.
   In the Data Validation dialog box that appears, go to the “Settings” tab. Under “Allow,” choose the type of data you want to allow. Let’s delve into each of the validation criteria options available in Excel:
   
   Any Value:
   Selecting “Any Value” removes any existing data validation. It allows users to input any data without restrictions.
   
   Whole Number:
   With “Whole Number” validation, the user must enter a whole number. For instance, you can set a criterion that the entry must be a whole number greater than or equal to 50.
   
   Decimal:
   “Decimal” validation requires the user to enter a decimal number. You can specify a range, such as greater than or equal to 10 and less than or equal to 20.
   
   List:
   “List” validation allows users to choose from a predefined list of entries. This creates a drop-down list with the options you provide. Input ranges are used to populate the drop-down list.
   
   Date:
   “Date” validation ensures that the user enters a valid date within a specified range. For example, you can set criteria for the entered date to be greater than or equal to January 1, 2013, and less than or equal to December 31, 2013.
   
   Time:
   With “Time” validation, users must input a valid time within a specified range. You can, for instance, require the entered time to be later than 12:00 p.m.
   
   Text Length:
   “Text Length” validation limits the length of the entered data in terms of the number of characters. You can specify a valid length using the Data drop-down list. For example, you might set the criterion that the entered data should have a length of 1 (a single alphanumeric character).
   
   Custom:
   The “Custom” validation option allows you to use a logical formula to determine the validity of the user’s entry. The formula must return either TRUE or FALSE, and it provides a highly flexible way to enforce specific criteria based on your custom requirements.
   
6. Set Validation Criteria Options:
   Depending on your selection, configure additional options such as minimum and maximum values, date ranges, or custom formula criteria.
   
7. Input Message Tab:
   The Input Message tab in Excel’s data validation settings provides a means to offer helpful guidance or instructions to users when they select a validated cell. It serves as a proactive way to communicate expectations or provide assistance with the data entry process. By utilizing the Input Message tab effectively, you enhance the user experience and reduce the likelihood of errors during data entry.
   
   Title:
   In the “Title” field, you can specify a concise title for your input message. This title typically represents the purpose or context of the message.
   
   Input Message:
   The “Input message” field allows you to input a more detailed message providing instructions or information regarding the expected data input. This message is displayed in a pop-up box when the user selects the validated cell.
   
   For instance, if you have a cell where the user should input a specific type of data, such as a date or a whole number, you can use the Input Message tab to guide them. For a cell expecting a date entry, the title might be “Date Input,” and the input message could instruct the user to enter a date within a certain range.
   
   Go to the “Input Message” tab if you want to display a custom message when the cell is selected. This step is optional.
   
8. Error Alert (Optional):
   Switch to the “Error Alert” tab if you want to display an error message like stop, warning, or information when users enter invalid data. This step is also optional.
9. Click “OK” to Apply:
   After setting up your data validation criteria and optional messages, click “OK” to apply the data validation to the selected cell or range.
10. Test the Data Validation:
    Try entering data into the validated cells to ensure that it adheres to the specified criteria. If an entry violates the rules, any configured error messages will be displayed.
    
    Congratulations! You’ve successfully added data validation to your Excel spreadsheet, ensuring that data entries meet the specified criteria for accuracy and consistency.