Data Validation List Help

[yenfen]

Hi,

I'm pretty new with this so please bear with me. I have a spreadsheet that contains multiple look up spreadsheet. I used data validation to create the primary spreadsheet by using a list. I understand by using data validation it created a drop down list (combo box?). I want the users to be able to type in the letters in the drop box to get to the closest match to the list (example: type in eur then display everything associate with eur). Is this possible?

Thanks so much!

 

[SkipVought]

Hi,

Data/Validation does not do "closest match". It does EXACT MATCH to the list - point 'n' click from the dropdown.

If you TYPE in the cell, you have to complete the entire value.



Skip,

Want to get great answers to your Tek-Tips questions? Have a look at FAQ219-2884

 

[yenfen]

Thank you so much Skip.

What can I do to allow user to type and match a certain item on the list? Is there another way?

 

[SkipVought]

You can insert a ComboBox from the Control Toolbox.

It will STILL require that the user FIRST open the ComboBox, but typing will select newest match if the MatchEntry property is fmMatchEntryComplete AND the user must then select OUT of the ComboBox.

If you choose this route, a SINGLE ComboBox is sufficient, as you can control the Visible property and the position and size properties in the context of the selected cell using the Worksheet_SelectionChange event.



Skip,

Want to get great answers to your Tek-Tips questions? Have a look at FAQ219-2884

 

[Zathras]

Skip is absolutely correct (as usual), but since you will have to click into the combo box and then click out of the combo box when finished (by clicking in some cell), you might just as well stick with the data validation combo box.

If you don't like using the mouse, you can use the keyboard instead: By typing Alt-Down after moving into the cell with the data validation drop-down, you can select with the the cursor keys, hit enter and then use either tab or arrow keys to move on. Still no auto-select by typing letters, though.

The only other alternative is to use VBA, as Skip hinted.