Can I follow these steps for Google Sheets?
Yes, mostly. Google Sheets supports drop-down lists, but the steps are slightly different.
Too: Stop Using Google Docs Like a Newbie: 10+ Useful Tricks
Instead of Data > Data Validation, you use Data > Data Validation > Add Rule, then select a dropdown or dropdown from a range. The idea is the same, but the menu labels and options are slightly different. Look Google’s help guide for further assistance.
Can you edit a drop-down list after you create it?
Yes. Select the cells, return to data, then data validation, and edit the value in the source field.
Pro Tip: For long or frequently changing lists, put your options in a column on another sheet and reference that range in the source field, like =Sheet1!D1:D10.
Is there a limit on the number of items?
Excel does not set a practical item count limit, but the total character length of the typed list does. Limited to 32,767 characters.
Want to create a Yes/No drop-down?
Follow the same steps above and enter Yes, No in the Source field.
- Select cells for drop-down.
- Go to Data, then Data Validation or Validation.
- Select the list under Permissions.
- Enter Yes, No in the Source field.
- Click OK to save.
Is there a formula needed to create the drop-down?
No, drop-down lists depend on data validation, not formulas.
Are drop-downs the same as filters?
No, filters live in the column headers and control which rows are visible. Drop-down lists reside in individual cells and control which values can be entered.
Can you use Copilot to create drop-downs?
By 2026, Copilot in Excel can explain how to create drop-down lists and help generate source data, but it can’t add data validation drop-downs directly through a prompt. You still need to use the Data Validation menu.
Too: How to remove Copilot from your Microsoft 365 plan
Copilot in Excel is a paid feature and requires a Microsoft 365 plan.
