Creating Data Validation Rules
Data validation allows you to create restrictions on what can be entered into a cell. You can have Excel display a warning message or prevent invalid entry if a user of the worksheet does not enter the correct type of value.
Use the following procedure to create a data validation rule.
- Select the cells where you want to apply the data validation rule.
- Select the Data tab from the Ribbon.
Select Data Validation. Select Data Validation.
On the Settings tab of the Data Validation dialog box, set up the Validation Criteria. Use the drop down lists to help you build your criteria. In this example, we are requiring a three-digit number.
Select the Input Message tab.
Enter a Title and Message that the user will see when he or she selects the cell.
Select the Error Alert tab.
Select the Style of error from the drop down list. Enter a Title and Error message to display if the user enters invalid data.
- Select OK.