Control data entry and allow only specific values in a column

Even when a column property is set, you can still type text or a new value into a cell. For example, you have a checkbox column in your sheet. Collaborators can still add free texts in it and overwrite the checkbox. Another example is if you have a list of dropdown values in your dropdown column. Collaborators can still add a different value from the ones listed by typing in free text to the cell.

The only columns you can't overwrite are the following system columns:

• Auto number
• Latest comment
• Created by
• Created date
• Modified by
• Modified date

Read on to learn how to restrict values in a cell or form field.

Restrict column data to specific values

Before you begin

Only Owners and Admins can restrict values for a column. They can also bypass data validation. If they attempt to enter a different value from those specified as valid for the column, they will receive a warning message.

To restrict values for an existing column

1. Right-click the column header.
2. SelectEdit Column Properties.
3. Turn on theRestrict totoggle.

To restrict values for a new column

1. 插入一个新列.
2. Turn on theRestrict totoggle.

These same restrictions apply to anyweb formsthat are associated with the sheet.