How to Change a Drop Down List in Google Sheets

Greetings earthlings! As a marketer, I love Google Sheets and use it for keeping track of everything from leads to editorial calendars. One of my favorite features is its drop-down list. It's such a handy tool for keeping data consistent across different rows, but sometimes we need to update these lists. Not sure how? Fret not! Let me walk you through it. 

Step 1: Open Your Google Sheets and Locate the Drop Down List

Before we start, make sure you are logged into your Google account and open the Google Sheets document where you want to change your drop down list. Then, locate the cell with the drop-down list. It should have a drop-down menu button on the right side of the cell. 

Step 2: Select “Data Validation”

Right-click on the cell that has the drop-down list and select “Data Validation.”

Step 3: Edit Your Drop Down List

Click on the drop-down box next to “Criteria,” select the “List from a range” option, then click on the range listed next to “Criteria.”

Here's where the magic happens! You can now edit the range of the drop-down list to match your updated data. Simply change the data in the “Value or Range” box to the new data you want to display in the drop-down list.  

Pro tip: If you have a range that is not consistent (e.g., A1:A5 and A7:A10) and you want to update both ranges to display the same data, you can enter the new data into one of the ranges and then copy and paste it into the other range. 

Step 4: Save Your Changes

Once you've finished editing the drop-down list, simply click “Save” or “Save Rules” to apply your changes. Now, your drop-down list should be updated and reflect the new data you entered. 

Final Thoughts

Changing a drop-down list may sound like a daunting task at first, but trust me, it's really easy to do. Google Sheets makes it simple to keep your data consistent and accurate, even if you need to make changes down the line. So, the next time you need to update one of your drop-down lists, give it a try! You might be surprised at how easy it is. 

And there you have it, folks! I hope this guide has been helpful in teaching you how to change a drop-down list in Google Sheets. Remember, consistency is key when it comes to keeping your data accurate and reliable, and Google Sheets is here to help you every step of the way. Now, go forth and use your newfound knowledge to change your drop-down lists like a pro!

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