Creating pop-up windows

**AS_WRI** · 11-09-2011, 02:10 PM

Dear Excel Forum,

I'm trying to consolidate different types of data comparing the methods of different scientific studies into one excel sheet for quick reference. The current set up is the different papers in the columns headers and specific facts in the row headers example: does the study include a graph? If yes, the appropriate study (determined by the column header) recieves an X. I have been supplementing each check mark with additional information through Review > New Comment but I know there are better ways to provide additional data. Another option I've looked at is using Data > Data Validation > Input Message but again, that is very simplistic and not visually appealing.

Is there a better way to provide supplementary data to individual cells? Preferably through some sort of pop-up window?

Thank you.

**Richard Buttrey** · 11-09-2011, 02:34 PM

Hi,

There is of course the UserForms functionality in the Visual Basic Environment.

These are pop up windows which 'float' above the worksheet, and can contain controls like list boxes which can be populated from ranges of cell, and then used to select items and push the selections back to the worksheet.

Being VBA code it is non trivial if you're not used to it, and would require a fair amount of dedication to overcome the initial steep learning curve. But it would give a more professional look and feel.

Regards

**AS_WRI** · 11-09-2011, 02:53 PM

Do you have a good source you would recommend for using VBA? I'm willing to put in the time to make this spreadsheet look more professional, plus I feel like this would be a worthy skill to continue to use.

**Richard Buttrey** · 11-09-2011, 09:49 PM

Hi,

There are several books on the subject of VBA, just search Amazon for some examples. There are also many web sites, google Excel VBA User Forms. I've noted three below.

In then end it's a personal choice and down to how you prefer to learn. Some people like to attend structured courses with professional trainers. Others just like to get involved and immerse themselves with examples and puzzle their own way through.

One good way is to watch this forum, see how various people approach VBA code and try working things out yourself. When you get stuck, as you inevitably will then there are many people here to help and offer specific advice.

http://www.contextures.com/xlvba01.html

http://www.exceltip.com/st/Create_Us...Excel/629.html

http://www.excel-vba.com/index.htm

Regards