Excel: Data > Validation... > Settings > List 1

[PDQBach]

I have an existing data validation list (it has about a dozen items in it). I need to add two items at specific locations in that list.

To edit the existing list I clicked on:

Data > Validation...
In the "Data Validation" popup, I selected the Settings tab
On that tab, "Allow" shows "List"
On that tab, I clicked in the "Source" field

When I pressed the arrow keys (to move the insertion point [the cursor] left or right) in the field, the cursor does NOT move.

Instead, it moves on the actual spreadsheet AND inserts the cell reference in the "Source" field data.

For example:
Source contains: aaaaaaa,bbbbbbbb,ccccccccc,ddddddd
Click in the middle of cccccccc
Press the right arrow key
Source displays: aaaaaa,bbbbbbb,cccc=$B$1ccccc,ddddddd

Question: How can I edit the values in the Source field and reposition the cursor without having the cell reference entered?

 

[GlennUK]

Press F2 to switch between cursor pointing and contents altering.

Cheers, Glenn.

Beauty is in the eye of the beerholder.

 

[PDQBach]

Bingo! I owe you a pint for your quick answer. In lieu of the virtual pint, please accept a star.

 

[SkipVought]

PDQ,

In the future, you might consider putting your Data > Validation lists on a sheet and referencing the List to the RANGE. If you use a Named Range to define your list, then you can put the list on a DIFFERENT SHEET and reference the Named Range.

Skip,

_{Just traded in my old subtlety...
for a NUANCE!}

 

[SkipVought]

...The reason being that maintaining a List is simpler than editing a Data > Validation -- LIST list.

Hint: Define each list 1) in isolation from any other data and 2) use the Data > List > Create List feature, which will ALSO maintain the Named Range definition to any maintenance you perform (Add/Delete) to the list.

Skip,

_{Just traded in my old subtlety...
for a NUANCE!}

 

[PDQBach]

Skip: Good points. I inherited the sheet so, for now, I'll make as few changes as possible. But that's good advice that I'll follow it on my own sheets. And, of course, I'll hide the worksheet that has the named ranges.