Sorting by Data Validation List

I am using a data validation list for data entry on my spreadsheet. I then want to sort the spreadsheet according to a predefined order, so I created a custom sort list for that. However, when I try to sort by the custom sort list, it will not sort correctly. When I tried to test the custome sort list by just entering the data free-hand and not using the drop down list, I had no problem. Can you help???

Hi

Can you post a sample worksheet using false information

Thanks

Here is a sample worksheet.

Hi
I am at a bit of a loss to explain why this is not working, it may be that selecting from the pull down you are not pressing enter or tab which you would do entering the information manually. However as a quick fix Ive found that if you insert table first your custom sort will work.

Hope that helps

Chris

I'm not sure what you mean by "insert table first"?? Can you explain??

Chris....haven't heard from you since my last post. Can you please let me know what you mean
by "insert table first"?? Thank you!

Hi

Sorry been on my hols Click the insert tab on excel second icon in is the table so click anywhere inside your range and then click on the table icon that will convert your range into a table. Hope that helps.

Chris

Sorry...hope you enjoyed your holidays. I tried what you suggested, I think. I converted the drop down values into a table. Then I created another column on the data entry page and used the new table to pick from the LOV. I still was not able to sort by my custom sort order. How did it work for you? Can you walk me thru the steps you took? Thanks for your time.

Hi

Click inside your range of drop downs. Then click on the insert tab at the top, second icon in is table click on that your range will now have changed into a table and show different colored rows. Use your drop downs to select whatever you want, then right click with your mouse button and select sort AtoZ, list sorted if not post a copy of your trail spreadsheet with table selected.


Chris

Ok. I see your step by step instructions, but if you remember, I am not sorting by AtoZ order....I created a custom order to sort by. That is the whole problem. Even after creating my range as a table and using that to populate by data with the LOV, I still am unable to sort by the custom order list I defined. Are you able to do that??