how to validate data in google sheets
IN SUMMARY
Data Validation in Google Sheets allows you to control the type of data that can be entered into a cell or range of cells. This helps avoid errors and ensures the accuracy of your data and formulas.
Setting up Data Validation
A dialog box will appear on the right side of the sheet. Click '+ Add rule' to set up a new validation rule.
You can select a single cell or a range of cells where you want to enforce the data validation rule.
Google Sheets offers several criteria options, such as number, text, date, list of values, and custom formulas. Select the appropriate criteria based on your data requirements.
Validation Criteria Options
Restrict input to numeric values within a specified range, greater than, less than, or equal to a certain value.
Validate text input based on conditions like containing or not containing specific text, exact match, valid email address, or valid URL.
Ensure that the input is a valid date within a specified range, before or after a certain date, or based on other date-related conditions.
Advanced Data Validation Options
Create a drop-down list of predefined values by manually entering the options or referencing a range of cells containing the list items.
Allow users to check or uncheck a box in a cell, with the option to assign specific values for checked and unchecked states (e.g., TRUE/FALSE).
Use a custom formula to validate data based on more complex conditions or calculations. This option provides greater flexibility but requires knowledge of Google Sheets formulas.
Handling Invalid Data
This option allows users to enter invalid data but displays a warning message, giving them a chance to correct the input.
With this option, Google Sheets will not accept any data that violates the validation rule, preventing invalid entries from being saved.
You can provide additional guidance to users by adding help text that appears when they try to enter invalid data, explaining the expected input format or requirements.