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I have a workbook created in Excel 2010. I used Data Validation to create a drop-down list in a cell that uses a different column of data for the list of values. I selected "List" in data validation and made sure that "in cell drop-down" is selected. the Drop Down list works fine while I have the spreadsheet open. For business purposes, I need to protect both the worksheet and workbook structure but the drop-down cells are unlocked and not hidden. The source data is both locked and hidden. Everything works fine until I save and close the workbook and then reopen it. The drop-down arrow still appears but the list does not pop up when the cell/arrow is selected. When I select "Data Validation" again, it says it allows "Any Value". That is, the validation is gone.
I know in excel 2007 there was an issue with frozen panes using drop downs. i have no frozen panes. the cell DOES, however, have a name applied to it so it can be referenced by name in other places in the workbook. But other drop-downs without names also have the same problem.
Please help. I am really under the gun to get this working and will be completely stuck without these data validation fields.
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Hi, I have been having the same problem. I have just saved the Excel file as a Macro Enabled workbook and problem has resolved.
Opened workbook by filename 'TEST.xlsx'.
Entered an sample list of names in Sheet2 A1:A10
Selected cell A1 in sheet1> data tab> datavalidation> list> source =Sheet2!A1:A10 (Check in cell drop down)>ok
Sheet1 A1>Format cells> protection> uncheck loceked> ok. Now when sheet1 is active> Protect sheet>ok; protect workbook> ok
I saved an reopened it, it worked . It worked like a charm.
Please provide step by step on how you trying to work on excel file. I am sure some where its problem in the course of data validating:(
Keep Eye on your TIME, Not on your WATCH.
Hi,
I'm facing exactly the same problem. Has someone find out a solution yet? I'm using Data Validation to create a drop-down list in a cell. Whenever I close the workbook, the Data Validation disappears.
Hope someone can help.
BR,
Gabriel
I have had the same issue and i have just saved the file as a macro enabled workbook and this has solved the problem.
Had the same problem...tried several things before I finally fixed it. You know how in the data validation menu when you select "List" and then you go to pick your range you should be able to just select cells A1:A5? Well when I was doing that it would always be gone after the save.
Instead, I just highlighted the range A1:A5 and named the range, say, "Groceries" . Then I went into Data Validation, selected "List" and typed =Groceries instead of selecting a range. Saved it, opened it, and it worked. No idea why you would have to name every range, but it seems to have worked for me.