To allow only values that do not exist in a list, you can use data validation with a custom formula based on the COUNTIF function. In the example shown, the data validation applied to B5:B9 is: where “list” is the named range D5:D7. In this case, the COUNTIF function is part of an expression that returns TRUE when a value does not exist in a defined list. The COUNTIF function simply counts occurrences of the value in the list. As long as the count is zero, the entry will pass validation. If the count is not zero (i.e. the user entered a value from the list) validation will fail. Note: Cell references in data validation formulas are relative to the upper left cell in the range selected when the validation rule is defined, in this case B5.
Dave Bruns
Hi - I’m Dave Bruns, and I run Exceljet with my wife, Lisa. Our goal is to help you work faster in Excel. We create short videos, and clear examples of formulas, functions, pivot tables, conditional formatting, and charts.
