Populate a drop down list using a formula without a "helper" Column

**GarethmMorgan** · 11-01-2017, 12:43 PM

Hi Guys,

I am trying to make a time sheet for work, I have a big table full of a number of project codes in one column, and then in an adjacent column a number of tasks with all fall within the same project code.
I have managed to sort the project codes into a unique list and then input this into a drop down list, and now I am trying to do something similar with the task codes. So when the project code is selected in the first drop down list, it will auto populate a second drop down list with the corresponding task codes for that project.
The thing that I am trying to do, is to do this without having to have the second drop down list be populated from a secondary table, I would like it all to come from the main table (Hope that makes sense).
So the question really is, is there anyway to populate a drop down list using a function which will search the entire table and populate its self based off the value already in one cell, without having to have a "helper" column?

Many thanks,

Gareth

**davesexcel** · 11-01-2017, 01:37 PM

Attaching a sample workbook enables others to work on your problem:

To attach a sample workbook. Make sure there is just enough data to make it clear what is needed. Include BEFORE/AFTER sheets if needed to show the process you're trying to complete or automate. Remember to desensitize the data.

Click on GO ADVANCED and click "manage attachments" to open the upload window.

To add a file to a post

**mjr veverka** · 11-01-2017, 04:40 PM

try this one, but no sample, no complaints handling ...

**FDibbins** · 11-02-2017, 01:43 AM

Originally Posted by GarethmMorgan

....So the question really is, is there anyway to populate a drop down list using a function....

Short answer - no.
A dropdown/data validation is no different to entering data manually, the only differences being that you dont need to type the data, it helps avoid typos, you can restrict what the user enters. Other than that, there is pretty much no difference.

That being said, you can either have data (typed or from a DD) OR a formula/function, you cant have both

Now, what you MIGHT be able to do is use a lookup to find the data from teh 1st DD, and return corresponding data from that?

Populate a drop down list using a formula without a "helper" Column

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