This is what I use for dates, names etc.:

Adding a drop down in excel:
• First click on the cell that you want to contain the pull down list
• Next, click on the Data tab and click on “Data Validation”
• Next, select Data Validation and you will get a small options box that pops up
• You need to change the “Any Value” under Allow: from “Any Value” to “List”
• Then in the space labeled “Source” you can type your list by separating each option with a comma.