Are you tired of manually validating data on Excel? Worry no more! In this article, we will teach you a shortcut to data validation on Excel.
What is Data Validation on Excel?
Data validation is a feature in Excel that allows users to control the type of data that gets entered into designated cells. This feature saves time and reduces errors in data entry.
How to Use Data Validation Shortcut on Excel
The shortcut for data validation on Excel is simple. Follow these steps:
- Select the cells where you want to apply data validation
- Press “Alt + D + L”
- The data validation window will appear
- Select the validation criteria you want to apply
- Click “OK”
That’s it! You have successfully applied data validation on Excel using a shortcut.
Types of Data Validation Criteria on Excel
There are several types of data validation criteria available on Excel. Here are some of them:
- Whole Number
- Decimal
- Date
- Time
- Text Length
- List
- Custom
Choose the criteria that fits your data validation needs.
Custom Data Validation on Excel
If you cannot find the data validation criteria that suits your needs, you can create a custom data validation on Excel. Here’s how:
- Select the cells where you want to apply data validation
- Press “Alt + D + L”
- The data validation window will appear
- Select “Custom” in the “Allow” dropdown menu
- Type in the formula for your custom data validation
- Click “OK”
Your custom data validation is now applied on Excel.
Data Validation Error Messages on Excel
When data validation fails on Excel, an error message will appear. Here are some of the error messages you may encounter:
- “The value you entered is not valid”
- “You must enter a date in the format YYYY-MM-DD”
- “The text you entered is too long”
- “The value must be between 0 and 100”
Review the error message and make the necessary adjustments to your data validation criteria.
Data Validation Tips on Excel
Here are some tips to help you maximize the use of data validation on Excel:
- Use data validation to avoid errors in data entry
- Use custom data validation to fit your specific needs
- Review error messages and make necessary adjustments
- Make sure to select the correct data validation criteria
- Apply data validation on large data sets to save time
Conclusion
Data validation on Excel is a powerful feature that saves time and reduces errors in data entry. By using the shortcut “Alt + D + L”, you can easily apply data validation on designated cells. Choose the data validation criteria that fits your needs and review error messages to make necessary adjustments. Keep these tips in mind to maximize the use of data validation on Excel.
