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Organize your study schedule with this assignment planner template (excel / pdf).

An assignment planner template is a useful tool that enables you to organize your assignments and complete them on time. Having this tool is beneficial for both the students and the people who are assigned to work on a specific project over a specific period.

Furthermore, the assignment planner streamlines your process of planning the assignment and ensures an organized approach to your work. Using this template improves time management, reduces stress, and enhances the quality of your assignment.

Why should you use the assignment planner template?

The assignment planner template provides you with an effective way to manage your assignments. Anyone whose aim is to achieve academic or professional success should use this template. It ensures that your assignment is comprehensive and aligned with the set objectives. The planner helps you improve time management skills and key competencies that are crucial in both academic and professional settings. In addition, it enables you to break down complex tasks into manageable steps so that you can complete your task systematically. Also, it improves the quality of your final product by reducing the last-minute rushes.

Important components of the assignment planer:

The assignment planner should include the following details;

Assignment overview

In this section, you have to specify the assignment’s main topic or question. Describe your assignment precisely to avoid confusion.

Mention the due dates in front of each assignment so that you know how much time you have to complete them. You can organize them according to your priority level.

Completion status

When you keep track of your assignment status, it informs you which work you have started, are in progress, is completed, or require revision.

Subject and type

Classify your assignments into their respective subjects or group them by type.

School assignment planner:

An assignment planner is very important for the students as they are mostly bound to have assignments. It provides them with due dates for different assignments that they have to do. The planner can be used as a timeline that makes sure the students are on time in terms of the assignments.

Assignment Planner Excel Template

Assignment Planner Template Excel

Assignment Schedule Template

Free Printable Assignment Planner

Printable Weekly School Assignment Planner Template

School Assignment Schedule Template

Student Assignment Planner Template

Weekly Assignment Planner Template

Work assignment planner:

Professionals can use the work assignments planner to record special projects if they are assigned to do a lot of tasks daily . Also, they use it to write additional responsibilities that are assigned to them by the company. The planner also helps them in managing their time.

The assignment planner template can be used by students , researchers, and professionals who have been assigned different assignments along with the due dates.

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I am Ryan Duffy and legal writer. I received a bachelor of business administration (BBA) degree from London Business School. I have 8+ years of writing experience in the different template fields and working with ExcelTMP.com for 7 years. I work with a team of writers and business and legal professionals to provide you with the best templates.

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How to Create a Semester Assignment Spreadsheet

(Read: How to Make a Daily, Prioritized Study List )

1. Gather the syllabi from all of your classes

That would be completely catastrophic. 

2. Open a Spreadsheet in Excel

(Read: How to Organize Your Class Binders )

3. Create Columns

4. put in every assignment due date.

Then, check it (23 times, if you’re me) to make sure you didn’t skip over any.

5. Sort by due date

A. select the due date column.

B. Order the list the old fashioned way

6. Format it so that it all fits onto one page

(Read: How to Get Better Grades in College )

7. Print it out

(Related: Your Ultimate Back to School Checklist )

8. Track your progress

Here is what I do:

(Related: 5 Must-Know Time Management Tips for College )

What are some ways that you keep track of your assignments?  How do you prioritize your projects? 

Share this:.

Published by Kirsten Horton

Hi, I'm Kirsten! An organization-obsessed Kindergarten teacher and kids' interior designer who believes in making life as bright, cheery, and orderly as possible! :) View all posts by Kirsten Horton

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Excel Tutorial: How To Organize Assignments In Excel

Introduction.

When it comes to managing assignments, Excel can be a powerful tool to keep everything organized and easily accessible. Whether you're a student, a teacher, or a project manager, using Excel for assignments can help streamline your workflow and increase productivity.

Excel provides a range of features for organizing, sorting, and analyzing data, making it an ideal platform for managing assignments of all kinds. This tutorial will guide you through the process of setting up an Excel spreadsheet to effectively manage and track assignments, helping you stay on top of deadlines and priorities.

Key Takeaways

• Excel is a powerful tool for managing assignments and increasing productivity for students, teachers, and project managers.
• Understanding the basics of Excel, including the layout and functions, is essential for effective assignment organization.
• Creating a new spreadsheet and inputting data with proper formatting sets the foundation for organized assignment management.
• Utilizing formulas, functions, and visual enhancements such as color-coding and charts can further enhance assignment organization in Excel.
• By practicing and implementing the tips provided in this tutorial, users can effectively track deadlines and priorities in Excel, ultimately improving their workflow.

Understanding Excel Basics

When it comes to organizing assignments in Excel, it is important to have a good understanding of the basics of the software. This will ensure that you are able to utilize its features effectively and efficiently. In this chapter, we will explore the layout of an Excel spreadsheet, the different tabs and their functions, and provide some tips for navigating and selecting cells in Excel.

Rows and Columns

An Excel spreadsheet is made up of rows and columns. The rows are denoted by numbers and the columns are denoted by letters. This creates a grid structure that allows for easy organization of data.

Each intersection of a row and column is referred to as a cell. This is where you will input your data, formulas, and other information.

An Excel file can consist of multiple worksheets, each of which contains its own grid of cells. This allows you to organize different sets of data within the same file.

The Home tab contains the most commonly used commands for formatting and manipulating data, such as changing fonts, aligning text, and applying borders.

The Insert tab allows you to add various elements to your spreadsheet, such as tables, charts, shapes, and hyperlinks.

Formulas Tab

The Formulas tab is where you can find all the functions and formulas that Excel offers, allowing you to perform calculations and manipulate data.

The Data tab provides tools for sorting and filtering data, as well as importing and exporting data from external sources.

The Review tab contains tools for proofreading and collaborating on your spreadsheet, such as spell check, comments, and protection.

The View tab allows you to customize the way your spreadsheet is displayed, such as adjusting zoom, freezing panes, and showing or hiding gridlines.

Keyboard Shortcuts

Learning keyboard shortcuts can greatly improve your efficiency in Excel. For example, pressing Ctrl + Home will take you to the first cell of the spreadsheet, while Ctrl + Shift + Arrow Key will allow you to quickly select a range of cells.

Using the Name Box

The Name Box, located next to the formula bar, displays the name of the selected cell or range of cells. You can use this to quickly navigate to a specific cell by entering its reference in the Name Box.

Mouse Navigation

Clicking on a cell will select it, and clicking and dragging will allow you to select a range of cells. You can also use the scroll bars to navigate around the spreadsheet.

Creating a New Spreadsheet

When it comes to organizing assignments in Excel, the first step is to create a new spreadsheet. This can be done by following a few simple steps.

To open a new Excel workbook, start by opening Microsoft Excel on your computer. Once the program is open, you can either click on "File" in the top left corner and select "New" to create a new workbook or use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + N. This will open a new blank spreadsheet for you to work with.

Formatting Options:

• Adjusting column width and row height to accommodate data
• Applying cell borders and shading for better visual organization
• Using formatting tools for fonts, colors, and text alignment

Once the new spreadsheet is open and formatted to your preference, it's time to input the assignment data.

• Start by selecting the cell where you want to input the data
• Type the assignment details, such as the assignment name, due date, and any other relevant information
• Continue inputting data into subsequent cells for each assignment

Organizing Assignment Data

When managing multiple assignments in Excel, it's essential to keep the data organized for easy access and reference. By utilizing the following methods, you can streamline your workflow and stay on top of your tasks effectively.

A. Use of headers and subheaders for assignment details

When creating your assignment spreadsheet, it's crucial to use clear and descriptive headers to outline the assignment details. This includes task name , due date , subject , priority level , and any other relevant information. By using subheaders, you can further categorize specific details within each assignment, such as subtasks , additional notes , or attached files .

B. Examples of how to categorize assignments

Excel offers various ways to categorize assignments, making it easier to manage and prioritize your workload. You can categorize assignments by due date , subject , or priority level by creating separate columns for each category. For example, you can use the due date column to sort assignments by their deadline, the subject column to group assignments by course or project, and the priority level column to identify urgent tasks.

C. Benefits of using filters and sort functions

Utilizing Excel's filter and sort functions can greatly enhance the organization of your assignments. By applying filters, you can quickly narrow down specific assignments based on criteria such as subject or priority level . The sort function allows you to arrange assignments in ascending or descending order based on the due date or any other relevant category, providing a clear overview of your upcoming tasks.

Using Formulas and Functions

One of the key features of Excel is its ability to perform calculations and automate processes using formulas and functions. In the context of organizing assignments, these tools can be incredibly useful for tracking deadlines, progress, and grades.

Sum and Average:

Weighted average:, today's date:, conditional formatting:, progress tracker:, deadline reminders:, adding visual enhancements.

Visual enhancements can help make your Excel spreadsheet more engaging and easier to navigate. Here are some tips for adding visual elements to your assignment organization:

Formatting options such as bolding, italicizing, and underlining can help draw attention to important information in your spreadsheet. Additionally, adjusting font styles and sizes can help make your spreadsheet more visually appealing and easier to read.

Color-coding can be a powerful tool for visually organizing your assignments. By assigning different colors to different categories or priorities, you can quickly identify and differentiate between various tasks. Conditional formatting, on the other hand, allows you to automatically apply formatting based on specific criteria, making it easier to highlight important data or trends.

Charts and graphs can help provide a visual representation of your assignment data, making it easier to identify patterns, trends, and discrepancies. Consider using pie charts, bar graphs, or line graphs to effectively communicate your assignment information in a visually appealing way.

In conclusion, we have discussed the key points of how to organize assignments in Excel, including using tabs and color-coding to keep track of different tasks, and utilizing formulas for automating calculations and deadlines. Excel is an invaluable tool for organizing assignments due to its flexibility, efficiency, and customization options, making it a great choice for students and professionals alike.

We highly encourage our readers to practice using Excel for their assignment organization, as it can greatly streamline their workload and improve their productivity. For those who want to further enhance their Excel skills, there are numerous online resources, tutorials, and courses available to help you master this powerful tool.

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• How To Make An Assignment Sheet In Excel
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Creating an assignment sheet in Excel can streamline the management of tasks and deadlines. This guide provides step-by-step instructions to efficiently organize your assignments within Excel's versatile framework.

While Excel is a powerful tool, we'll also explore why Sourcetable presents a more user-friendly alternative for assignment sheet creation.

Creating an Assignment Sheet in Excel

Semester assignment spreadsheet overview.

A Semester Assignment Spreadsheet is an essential tool for students to list all assignments, due dates, class information, tuition deadlines, and administrative tasks. Its one-page format allows for easy tracking of progress, helping students stay motivated and productive.

Color-Coded Excel Sheet Creation

Excel's color-coding feature enhances the visual appeal and organization of the assignment sheet. Begin with color coding, then record assignments, add more colors, organize by due date, and utilize the sheet effectively for tracking and prioritization.

Steps to Make an Assignment Tracker

Start by compiling syllabi from all classes. Use Excel to create a comprehensive Semester Assignment Spreadsheet that combines due dates with important class information. This tool is excellent for prioritizing tasks and keeping track of grades. Print out the spreadsheet for convenient access and management.

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Common Use Cases

Use case 1: Tracking and managing homework assignments for students in a classroom

Use case 2: Organizing tasks and deadlines for a project team

Use case 3: Planning and scheduling content for social media posts

Use case 4: Monitoring employee tasks and responsibilities in a small business

Use case 5: Creating a personal workout and meal plan schedule

Excel vs. Sourcetable: A Comparative Analysis

Discover the strengths of Sourcetable, a modern spreadsheet tool designed to integrate numerous data sources seamlessly. Experience the ease of data management with its intuitive spreadsheet-like interface.

Explore the innovative AI copilot feature of Sourcetable, a game-changer in spreadsheet technology, offering real-time assistance in formula creation and template design, simplifying complex tasks.

Understand the versatility of Excel, a widely used application with robust functionalities for diverse data analysis and complex calculations, suitable for traditional spreadsheet users.

Assess the utility of Sourcetable for businesses seeking centralized data solutions, with its advanced data aggregation capabilities, versus Excel's conventional data handling approach.

Consider the efficiency gains with Sourcetable's AI-powered chat interface that streamlines formula generation and template customization, contrasting with Excel's manual formula setup.

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Task List Templates

The Excel task list templates on this page demonstrate some of the many ways that you can track tasks using a spreadsheet, from simple to do lists to more advanced Gantt charts. These templates demonstrate using icon sets to display priorities, using conditional formatting to display a progress bar, creating a gantt using using a stacked bar chart, and using a check mark to cross out tasks when they've been completed.

Tell me what you think about these templates: Leave a comment on the related blog article " Add Cool Features to Your To Do Lists ."

This Page (contents):

• Project Task List
• Simple Task Tracker
• Task List with Gantt Chart

Task Checklist Template

Printable task list templates, project task list template.

License : Private Use (not for distribution or resale)

Description

This spreadsheet demonstrates the use of conditional formatting to highlight the Priority column, to add a progress bar to the % Complete column, and to create a functioning check box via data validation. It also includes columns for entering budget and hours spent on each task.

Update 9/23/2019: Added the Google Sheets version - replaced the icon sets with in-cell checkboxes. Google Sheets does not yet have in-cell data bars (for the % Complete column).

Simple Task Tracker Template

This task tracker template demonstrates the use of custom icon sets via conditional formatting to show a priority rating of 1-4 with different color circles. It uses a similar technique for the checkbox in the Done column.

Project Task List with Gantt Chart

A gantt chart can be created from a task list using a stacked bar chart in Excel. This is a functional template that can be used for real project management tasks, but the primary purpose is to demonstrate how the data table is set up to create the gantt chart.

This task list template demonstrates how to create a checkbox using a data validation drop-down and how to use simple conditional formatting conditions to display HIGH, MEDIUM and LOW priority values. It also uses conditional formatting to change fonts to a gray strike-through when the checkbox is checked.

► How to Insert a Check Mark in Excel (on youtube)!

More Templates For Tracking Tasks

• How to Use Conditional Formatting in Excel at vertex42.com
• Create a Drop Down List in Excel at vertex42.com

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15 Checklist, Schedule, and Planner Templates for Students

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I've Found the Perfect To-Do List App for My Needs: Here's Why It's Amazing

You can create the best to-do list with apps you're already using, 8 settings i changed to make my mac trackpad and keyboard behave like windows.

Templates are extremely useful for business documents, but for students they can be lifesavers.

You have enough to think about during the school year, so using a template can save a ton of time. Put your mind on your classes and use these helpful checklist and planning templates for the rest.

1. Homework Checklist

For a plain and simple homework checklist, this template from TeacherVision is great for younger students, but can work for any age. Each subject is in its own spot with days of the week and check boxes to mark off as you complete assignments.

2. Printable Homework Planner

This next homework planner from TidyForm lets you easily plan your assignments for each day of the week and even the weekend. Instead of listing out the subjects, you can enter them yourself for the day and include details with due dates for each.

Note: you will need a PDF editor to make changes to the template on your computer.

3. Homework Schedule

Another planner from TidyForm breaks down your days into time blocks. Each hour slot is along the left side of the sheet with the seven days of the week across the top. This one is great for assignments, but you could use it for class schedules or work shifts to plan your entire week ahead of time.

It is a basic template, but a useful one.

4. Class Schedule and Planner

If you need a more detailed planner, this schedule is intended for classes. However, it can also be used for more. It uses time blocks like the TidyForm planner, but breaks them down into increments that you choose. Adjust the start time and interval minutes and the sheet automatically updates. You can add your classes, pop in your homework time, and add shifts for work all in one place.

5. Assignment Schedule

This template from Vertex42 is another with time blocks in 30-minute increments. And, this one has even more detail. On one side of the template, you can list out classes with assignments, dates, and times.

On the other side, you can add your class schedule or plan your homework and projects. The workbook also includes a Homeschool tab for parents homeschooling their children. Overall, it's a good dual-purpose option.

6. Multiple-Task Planner

If you are a OneNote user, check out this option from OneNoteGem. You can quickly fill out subjects and assignments for five days of the week. This is ideal for classes that have many tasks on the same day.

For example, you may need to work on a group project, research a paper, and finish an assignment in one day. The template has a good amount of room for those to-dos.

7. Student Notebook

Also, for OneNote you can download an entire student notebook template. Just scroll further down on the OneNoteGem templates page for this option.

What's nice about this template is that the notebook includes sections for planners, five classes, and research along with note-taking tips.

8. Class Schedule

For a neat and flexible class schedule template, this one is available for Excel, OpenOffice, and Google Sheets. It is basic with time slots broken into 15-minute increments on one tab and 30-minute increments on another. Plus, it includes seven days of the week, unlike many others. For college students, this is a terrific class schedule template.

9. Student Planner

With a student planner that lists your subjects by week, you can stay on track every single day. Vertex42 has two templates to pick from that offer different layouts.

One option has the subjects down the left side with days of the week across the top. The other template is the reverse of that. Each has spots for to-dos and notes and is available for either Excel or as a PDF.

10. All-in-One Schedule and Budget

For an all-in-one workbook for college, this Excel template has sheets for classes per term, course credits, a college budget, and textbooks. You can keep everything in one place. You can also track your overall progress and your current GPA.

11. Student Calendar

Another planner from Microsoft Office is this 12-month student calendar. There is a tab for each month, spots for a weekly schedule, and a section for assignments. The year cell is editable making it reusable for your entire college career.

This template makes planning study time and homework a breeze.

12. Dorm Room Checklist

If you are heading to a dorm room for college, there is no better way to make sure you have everything than with this checklist template. You can add box numbers for packing and checks when you pack the items.

The template gives you sections such as kitchen supplies, electronics, computer equipment, safety items, and more.

13. Back to School Checklist

For parents with kids in elementary or middle school, this checklist is perfect for back-to-school time. One column has tasks to take care of like verifying immunizations and obtaining a school supply list. The second column has items to purchase from clothes and a backpack to school supplies.

If you have a youngster getting ready for a new school year, this is the template for you.

14. College Budget

When you need to keep an eye on your college budget, this template is just for it. The top section is for your funding and income with the bottom for your expenses. The most common types of college-related items are included, making this a convenient template for college students.

15. Monthly College Budget

This monthly budget tracker from Microsoft Office gives you a simple way to view your cash flow. You can glance at the pie charts at the top to get an overview of your income and expenses by month. Change the values below to add your items and the charts change automatically.

It's one simple sheet with everything you need to budget each month.

Time for Class!

For classes, assignments, budgeting, supplies, course credits, and all that goes with these things, make sure you are prepared when the bell rings or classroom door closes. Now that you have these 15 awesome template options, you are on your way to starting the school year off right.

You might also check out these essential Windows apps for students to help with school.

Image Credits: Rawpixel.com/Shutterstock

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Create a to-do list in Excel

november 15, 2023

by Farizat Tabora

To-do lists are helpful for everything from projects at work to chores at home, and using a template saves me a ton of time. Today I’m going to share with you my favorite to-do list template . I rely on it every day to keep my head clear and organized.

You can choose from dozens of free Microsoft to-do list templates on Microsoft Create. I use Excel Web to edit my template, which is completely free!

Use formatting to easily show priority and due dates

First, I assign a priority level, start date and due date to each task. To make it easier to see which tasks require immediate attention, I like to use conditional formatting to highlight priority.

We'll start by creating the first rule to highlight high priority tasks with red color. To do this in the to-do list template, select the "Priority" column > Conditional formatting > Highlight Cell Rules > Text that contains > type "High", and keep red as the fill color. Select Done to apply the rule.

Next, let's create a rule to highlight normal priority tasks with yellow color. Select the plus sign to create a new rule. Select Specific text , type "Normal" and select yellow as the fill color, then Done .

Lastly, we'll create a rule to highlight low priority tasks with grey color. Again, we can click on the plus sign to create a new rule, select Specific text , type "low" and select grey as the fill color and black as the font color. Select Done to apply the rule.

Now that we've set up conditional formatting, it's easier to identify the priority of each task in the Excel to-do list.

Update your task status to stay on track

As I work on each task in the to-do list template, I update its status using the drop-down menu in the "Status" column. This helps me keep track of what I've accomplished and what still needs to be done. To keep track of my progress, I also update the "% Complete" column as I work through each task. Finally, if I need to add any additional details or notes about a task, I can easily do so in the "Notes" column.

That's it! With this easy-to-use Excel to-do list template, I can keep my tasks organized and stay on top of my work.

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How to add a drop-down list to a cell in excel.

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A windows update is breaking dual-booting pcs, if your pc won't run windows 11, here are 5 great linux operating systems to try instead, quick links, what is an excel drop-down list, how to add a drop-down list to excel, key takeaways.

• Drop-down lists in Excel make data entry easier and more efficient by allowing users to select pre-determined values from a list of options.
• To add a drop-down list in Excel, use the Data Validation feature and name the range of cells containing the options. Then, enter the name of the cell range in the Source box of the Data Validation dialog box.
• You can customize the behavior of the drop-down list by checking or unchecking options like "Ignore blank" or adding an input message. To remove the drop-down list, open the Data Validation dialog box and click the "Clear All" button.

Drop-down lists are very useful data entry tools we see just about everywhere, and you can add custom drop-down lists to your own Excel worksheets. It’s easy and we’ll show you how.

A drop-down list in Excel is exactly like any other drop-down list you're familiar with — just click the arrow then select one of a few pre-determined values. Drop-down lists make it easier and more efficient to enter data into your spreadsheets.

You can add drop-down lists to cells in Excel containing options such as "Yes" and "No", "Male" and "Female," or any other custom list of options, including numbers or special characters.

Drop-down lists are created using the Data Validation feature in Excel — not particularly intuitive. We’re going to create a drop-down list with a selection of age ranges to show you an example. We created three labeled columns : Name, Age, and Sex, and filled in two example names. You can do as many or as few as you like.

To begin, enter the list of age ranges into sequential cells down a column or across a row. We entered our age ranges into cells A7 through A11 on the same worksheet, as shown below. You can also add your list of options to a different worksheet in the same workbook.

Now, we’re going to name our range of cells to make it easier to add them to the drop-down list. To do this, select all the cells containing the drop-down list items and then enter a name for the cell range into the Name box above the grid. We named our cell range Age.

Hold Ctrl while you click to select multiple cells in Excel on Windows. On a Mac, hold Command and click to select multiple items. You can also hold Shift-click the first cell and then Shift-click the last cell to select all of the cells in between as well.

Now, select the cell into which you want to add a drop-down list and click the “Data” tab.

Open the Data Tools section of the Data tab, then click the “Data Validation” button

The Data Validation dialog box displays. On the Settings tab, select “List” from the Allow drop-down list (see, drop-down lists are everywhere!).

Now, we’re going to use the name we assigned to the range of cells containing the options for our drop-down list. Enter =Age in the “Source” box (if you named your cell range something else, replace “Age” with that name). Make sure the “In-cell dropdown” box is checked.

The “Ignore blank” check box is checked by default. This means that the user can select the cell and then deselect the cell without selecting an item. If you want to require the user to select an option from the drop-down list, uncheck the Ignore blank check box.

You can add a popup message that displays when the cell containing the drop-down list is selected. To do this, click the “Input Message” tab on the Data Validation dialog box. Make sure the “Show input message when the cell is selected” box is checked. Enter a Title and an Input message and then click the “OK” button.

When the cell containing the drop-down list is selected, you’ll see a down arrow button to the right of the cell. If you added an input message, it displays below the cell. The down arrow button only displays when the cell is selected.

Click the down arrow button to drop down the list of options and select one.

Of course, we have an entire column we want to take age values. There are a few ways to make that happen. The first — and easiest — is just to select all of the cells you want to have a drop-down menu before you go to Data Validation and actually add the drop-down menu. The simplest way to select every cell in a column is to click the column header. If you have a cell you're using for a label, just Ctrl+Click it to deselect it, so the formatting doesn't get applied there.

Then just apply the formatting just like we showed you previously.

The other scenario is when you've already applied the drop-down menu formatting to one cell, but don't want to have to repeat the process of creating a drop-down menu. In this case, just click and select the cell that already has the drop-down menu. Note the small square in the bottom-right corner of the cell. Left-Click and drag that corner down to all of the cells you want to have a drop-down menu, then release your mouse. The cells you dragged to will have inherited the drop-down menu from the original cell. It'll look like this:

This trick basically applies to any formatting you apply to a cell in Excel, not just drop-down menus.

If you decide you want to remove the drop-down list from the cell, open the Data Validation dialog box as described earlier and click the “Clear All” button, which is available no matter which tab is selected on the dialog box.

The options on the Data Validation dialog box are reset to their defaults. Click “OK” to remove the drop-down list and restore the cell to its default format.

If there was an option selected when you removed the drop-down list, the cell is populated with the value of that option.

Follow this process to add drop-down lists to other cells as needed. You can use the same list for multiple drop-down lists. If you have many drop-down lists you need to add on a worksheet, you may want to put the lists of options on another worksheet in the same workbook. You can hide the worksheet containing your lists of options to prevent them from being changed.

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How to create a to do list in excel (with templates).

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The human mind is a powerful thing. 

But sometimes, it can suddenly blank out! 

Like forgetting to note down the grocery items missing in your pantry or the project changes your client wants by the end of the day. 

While our brain can do quite a lot , sometimes relying on our memory isn’t always the best way to keep track of our tasks. 

That’s why a to-do list in Excel can be helpful. 

It helps you break down your tasks into different sections on a single spreadsheet, which you can view at any time. 

In this article, we’ll cover the six steps to create a to-do list in Excel and also discuss a better alternative that can handle more complex requirements the easier way. 

What Is a To Do List in Excel?

6 simple steps to make a to do list in excel, 10 excel to do list templates, 3 major disadvantages of to do lists in excel, create to do lists effortlessly with clickup.

Let’s roll!

A to-do list in Microsoft Excel helps you organize your most essential tasks in a tabular form. It comes with rows and columns to add a new task, dates, and other specific notes.

Basically, it lets you assemble all your to-dos on a single spreadsheet. 

Whether you’re preparing a move-in checklist or a project task list, a to-do list in Excel can simplify your work process and store all your information. 

While there are other powerful apps for creating to-do lists, people use Excel because: 

• It’s a part of the Microsoft Office Suite people are familiar with
• It offers powerful conditional formatting rules and data validation for analysis and calculations
• It includes an array of reporting tools like matrices , charts, and pivot tables, making it easier to customize the data

In fact, you can create Excel to-do lists for a wide range of activities, including project management, client onboarding , travel itinerary, inventory, and event management . 

Without further ado, let’s learn how to create a to-do list in Excel. 

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide on how to make a to-do list in Excel.

Step 1: Open a new Excel file

To open a new file, click on the Excel app, and you’ll find yourself at the Excel Home page. Double-click on the Blank Workbook to open a new Excel spreadsheet.

If you’re already on an Excel sheet and want to open a new file:

• Click on the File tab, which will take you to the backstage view . Here you can create, save, open, print, and share documents
• Select New , then click on Blank Workbook

Want an even faster route?

Press Ctrl+N after opening Excel to create a Blank Workbook. 

Your new workbook is now ready for you. 

Step 2: Add column headers

In our Excel to-do list, we want to track tasks and keep an eye on the progress by adding the column headers: Date , Task Name , Target , Status , and Comments . You can enter the column headers across the top row of the spreadsheet. 

These column headers will let anyone viewing your spreadsheet get the gist of all the information under it.  

Step 3: Enter the task details

Enter your task details under each column header to organize your information the way you want. 

In our to-do list table, we have collated all the relevant information we want to track:

• Date: mentions the specific dates
• Task Name: contains the name of our tasks
• Target: the number of task items we aim to complete
• Status: reflects our work progress 

You can also fix the alignment of your table by selecting the cells you want and click on the icon for center alignment from the Home tab . 

Step 4: Apply filters

Too many to-dos?

Use the Filter option in Excel to retrieve data that matches particular criteria. 

All you need to do is select any cell within the range of your data ( A1-E11) > Select Data > then select Filter .

You’ll see drop-down lists appearing in the header of each column, as shown in the image below.

Click on the drop-down arrow for the column you want to apply a filter.

As shown in our to-do list table below, we want to apply the filter to the Status column, so we’ve selected the cell range of D1-D11 .

Then, in the Filter menu that appears, you can uncheck the boxes next to the data you don’t want to view and click OK . You can also quickly uncheck all by clicking on Select All.

In our to-do list, we want to view only the Open tasks, so we apply the filter for that data.

After you save this Excel file, the filter will be there automatically the next time you open the file.

Step 5: Sort the data

You can use the Sort option in Excel to quickly visualize and understand your data better.

We want to sort the data in the Target column, so we’ll select the cell range C1-C11. Click on the Data tab and select Sort.

A Sort Warning dialog box will appear asking if you want to Expand the selection or Continue with the current selection . You can choose the latter option and click on Sort. 

The Sort dialog box will open where you have to enter the:

• The column you want to Sort by
• Cell values you wish to Sort on
• Order in which you want to sort the data

For our table, we have chosen the Target column and kept the order from smallest to largest. 

Step 6: Edit and customize your to do list

You can edit fields, add columns, use colors and fonts to customize your to-do list the way you want.

Like in our table, we’ve highlighted the Status column so anybody viewing can quickly understand your task progress. 

And voila! ✨

We’ve created a simple Excel to-do list that can help you keep track of all your tasks.

Want to save more time? 

Create a template from your existing workbook to keep the same formatting options that you generally use while making your to-do lists.

Or you can use any to-do list Excel template to get started instantly. 

Templates can help keep your workbooks consistent, especially when they’re related to a particular project or client. For example, a daily Excel to-do list template improves efficiency and enables you to complete your tasks sooner. 

Here are a few Excel to-do list templates that can help improve efficiency and save time:

1. Excel project management task list template

Download this project management task list template .

2. Excel inventory list template

Download these inventory list templates .

3. Excel action item list template

Download this action item list template . 

4. Excel simple to-do list template

Download this simple to-do list template .

5. Excel bill paying checklist template

Download this bill paying checklist template .

6. Excel weekly assignment to-do list template

Download this weekly assignment template .

7. Excel prioritized to-do list template

Download this prioritized to-do list template .

8. Excel homework to-do list template

Download this homework to-do list template .

9. Excel to-do list with deadlines template

Download this to-do list with deadlines template .

10. Excel project task list template

Download this project task list template .

However, you can’t always find a template that will fulfill your specific needs. 

Additionally, data management in Excel is prone to human error. 

Each time a user copy-pastes information from one spreadsheet to another, there is a greater risk of new errors cropping up into successive reports. 

Before you commit to Excel to-do lists, here are some limitations to consider. 

Even though widely used, Excel spreadsheets aren’t always the best option for creating your to-do lists. 

Here are the three common disadvantages of using Excel for to-do lists:

1. Lack of ownership

When multiple individuals work on the same spreadsheet, you’re unable to tell who’s editing. 

You might end up repeating a task in vain if a person forgets to update the Work Status column in shared to-do lists after it’s done.

Additionally, people can easily alter task details, values, and other entries in the to-do lists (intentionally or unintentionally). You won’t know whom to hold accountable for the error or change! 

2. Inflexible templates

Not all of the Excel to-do templates you find online are reliable. Some of them are extremely difficult to manipulate or customize.

You’ll spend forever on the internet to find one that works for you.

3. Manual labor

Making to-do lists in Excel involves a significant amount of manual labor. 

It may take you quite some time to fill out your to-do items and create an organized system.

This doesn’t sit well with us because tons of project management tools can save you so much time and effort by creating and managing your to dos.

Moreover, the complexity increases with the increasing size of data in your Excel file. Naturally, you’d want a substitute to streamline your to-dos to track them and reduce the monotonous, manual work involved. 

And honestly, Excel is no to-do list app .

To manage to-dos, you need a tool that’s specifically designed for it.

Like ClickUp , one of the highest-rated productivity and project management software that lets you create and manage to-dos with ease.

Related Excel guides:

• How to create a Kanban board in Excel
• How to create a burndown chart in Excel
• How to create a flowchart in Excel
• How to make an org chart in Excel
• How to create a dashboard in Excel
• How to Make a Waterfall Chart in Excel

ClickUp can help you create smart to-do lists to organize your tasks.  

From adding Due Dates to setting Priorities , ClickUp’s comprehensive features let you create and conquer all your to-dos!

One word: Checklists ! 

ClickUp’s Checklists give you the perfect opportunity to organize your task information so you never miss even the smallest of details. 

All you need to do is click on Add beside To Do (you can find it within any ClickUp task) , then select Checklist. You can name your Checklist and start adding the action items. Easy!

Easily organize task information so you never miss a beat with Checklists in ClickUp

Checklists within ClickUp give your tasks a clear outline. Apart from noting down the essential details, you also get subtasks to break down your tasks further. 

You can also arrange and rearrange the checklist items with the easy drag-and-drop feature. 

Reorganize your ClickUp Checklist by dragging and dropping your items

Worried about some tasks getting overlooked?

With ClickUp, you can add Assignees to your specific to-dos to see things through. 

Manage items on your Checklist by assigning them to yourself or the team in ClickUp

It also lets you reuse your favorite Checklist Templates to scale your work efficiency. 

To choose a template:

• Click Add from the To Do section of any task
• Click Checklist to reveal your options
• Choose a template and select Use Template

Use ClickUp’s Checklist Templates to stay efficient with different recurring tasks

Still hung up on Excel? That’s okay.

ClickUp’s Table view can help you move on.

But our Table view isn’t a mere matrix of rows and columns. 

You can visualize your data clearly and create Custom Fields to record almost anything from task progress to file attachments and 15+ other field types.

Moreover, you can easily import your ongoing project details into ClickUp with our Excel and CSV import options!

But wait, that’s not all!

Here are some other ClickUp features that’ll make you forget Excel in an instant:

• Assign Task: assign tasks to one or Multiple Assignees to quicken your pace of work
• Custom Tags: effectively organize your task details by adding Tags
• Task Dependencies: help your teammates understand their to-dos concerning other tasks by setting Dependencies
• Recurring Tasks: save your time and effort by streamlining repetitive to-dos
• Google Calendar Sync: easily sync your Google Calendar events with the ClickUp Calendar view . Any updates in your Google Calendar will automatically reflect on ClickUp too
• Smart Search: search Docs easily and other items that you’ve recently created, updated, or closed
• Custom Statuses: denote the status of your tasks, so the team knows at which stage of the workflow they currently are
• Notepad: jot down ideas quickly with our portable, digital Notepad
• Embed view: declutter your screen and add the apps or websites alongside your tasks instead
• Gantt Charts: track work progress, assignees, and dependencies with a simple drag and drop functionality (check out this Excel dependencies guide )

Tame Your To Do Lists With ClickUp

Excel may be a decent option for planning daily to-dos and simple task lists. However, when you work with multiple teammates and tasks, Excel might not be ideal for what you need. Collaboration isn’t easy, there’s too much manual labor, and no team accountability.

That’s why you need a robust to-do list tool to help you manage tasks, track deadlines, follow work progress, and foster team collaboration. 

Fortunately, ClickUp brings all of this to the table and so much more. 

You can create to-dos, set Reminders, track Goals, and view insightful Reports.

Switch to ClickUp for free and quit wasting all that brainpower on simple to-do lists! 

Questions? Comments? Visit our Help Center for support.

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Free Task List and Checklist Templates

By Kate Eby | July 19, 2016

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In this article, we’ve gathered the most comprehensive list of downloadable task and checklist templates to keep your personal and professional endeavors on track.

Included on this page, you’ll find a variety of free templates in Word, Excel, and PDF formats, such as a weekly task list template , project task template , event to-do list template , and more. 

Team Task List Template

Use this template to keep your team organized and cut wasted time in status meetings. Create a centralized view of all team member's responsibilities across multiple projects.

We’ve also included pre-built templates from Smartsheet, a work execution platform that empowers you to better manage checklists and deadlines with real-time collaboration and project visibility.

‌   Download Excel Template Try Smartsheet Template   ‌

Project Management Guide

Your one-stop shop for everything project management

Ready to get more out of your project management efforts? Visit our comprehensive project management guide for tips, best practices, and free resources to manage your work more effectively.

View the guide

Gantt Chart Task List Template

Get a visual picture of your scheduled tasks with this Gantt chart template. Often used in project management, a Gantt chart shows the duration of each task as a horizontal bar that spans start and end dates. Thus, it’s easy to see the different phases of a project, identify dependencies, and prioritize tasks. A Gantt chart can be useful for managing any task list that spans a set period of time.

Task Tracker Template

This task tracking template documents the progress of each item on your list, so it’s easy to assess the status of individual tasks or an entire project. There is space to list start and end dates, as well as to mark completed tasks. This template keeps things simple by providing only essential tracking information, but there is also space for notes in case you need to include further details or instructions.

Project Task Template

This template is designed for project management, and it can be used in both a business or personal setting. The template provides sections for project tasks, priority, deadlines, assignees, and deliverables, and it allows you to track project costs and compare estimated to actual hours. This is a detailed template that can easily be edited to match the exact needs of your project.

Weekly Task List Template

This weekly task list schedule includes columns for assigning a category to each item, along with deadlines and completion status. The default weekly calendar runs Sunday to Saturday, but  you can also choose the starting date for the week. If you need a combined calendar and task list, this template offers an easy solution.

Daily Task List Template

You can use this daily task list template to schedule tasks throughout the day while also planning ahead for an entire week. Choose the starting time for each day, as well as the starting date for your weekly calendar view. You can also adjust the time interval of each task, which allows you to break down each hour into incremental tasks, if needed.

To-Do List with Drop-Down Menus Template

This simple to-do list template includes drop-down menus for indicating priority and status on each item. When a task is marked as complete, the row changes color; this enables you to quickly spot which tasks are still in progress or have yet to be started. This task template could be used for a broad range of applications, from organizing homework assignments to planning an event or tracking work projects.

Prioritized Task List Template

This template is a step up from a basic to-do list, as it allows you to rank your tasks with the highest-priority items first. There is also a section for notes where you can elaborate on your tasks or add reminders. This template offers a simple way to stay organized while ensuring that you don’t overlook high-priority tasks.

‌   Download Word Template Try Smartsheet Template   ‌

Yearly Calendar Template (2024)

Use this 12-month calendar for a high-level look at your schedule and upcoming tasks. The template displays a standard January-to-December calendar, so you can view your long-term projects and tasks at a glance.

‌   Download Excel Template

Basic Task Checklist Template

This task checklist offers a basic outline with checkboxes for each item on your to-do list. It also has sections to note the due date and status of each task to assist with planning. After downloading this template, save a blank version so that you have a master copy ready to print and use any time you need to create a new task checklist.

‌   Download Word Template

Task Analysis Template

Use this task analysis template to determine the resources and time required to successfully complete a given task. The template includes sections for delineating the steps involved in a task, the resources (human, mechanical, or monetary) required for each step, and the time spent on each item. This provides a detailed analysis of a task, which can be useful for training purposes or for any situation where you need to evaluate a process.

Action Item List Template

Help your team stay organized and on task with this action item list for Word. The template includes a tracking number for each action item, start and due dates, the assigned owner for each task, and a notes section for adding updates or resolving issues. By defining and scheduling tasks as actionable items, you can track individual and team progress — and in the process, create a useful communication tool for all team members.

‌   Download Template in Word Try Smartsheet Template   ‌

Password Log Template

This template is designed to help you keep track of the passwords to all of your various accounts. List each account, and then fill in the columns for website URL, email address, username and password, security questions and answers, and any additional notes. Save the form to your computer or print a hard copy — remember, though, to store the information in a safe place and and not to share your passwords with anyone.

Download Password Log Template:

Excel  |  Word  |  PDF

Event To-Do List

This template can help you stay organized when planning an event, such as a dinner party, a baby or bridal shower, a wedding, or a birthday party. Simply list each task and the person responsible, and assign a priority level to the task so you and your team can prioritize the many moving pieces. Additionally, note the due date and date completed — any discrepancy between the two dates will help you more accurately plan the timeline for your next event.

Family To-Do List

This template, available in Word and PDF, is ideal for families who want a central resource to organize family tasks. The template provides separate tables for each family member to list their individual tasks, and then register due dates and notes, along with a column to mark completion. Of course, you can add or delete tables as needed.

Download Family To-Do List:

Word  |  PDF

Household Chores Task List Template

This chore list template allows you to create a weekly schedule for all of your household tasks. Create a list of tasks and assign each item to an individual for any day of the week. With a simple format, this template is easy to use, so you can streamline the planning process and start organizing your home. Additionally, you always have the option of saving the template as a PDF and printing a copy to share with others.

Project Punch List Form

In the construction industry, a punch list is a document that you complete toward the end of a project. In it, the contractor or property owner lists any work that has been done incorrectly or does not meet the specifications outlined in the original contract. The construction team then uses this punch list as a reference to complete or repair the work items before the project is officially closed. This punch list form provides a separate table to list each work item that needs repair or attention. Save the PDF form, print it, and fill it out by hand for easy use.

Project Closeout Template

Use this checklist to ensure you have completed all necessary tasks in a project. This template is designed with construction projects in mind, but you can edit the categories to reflect the needs of any multidimensional project, whether it pertains to building, real estate, or business — or even as a termination checklist if you are ending an association, an agreement, or a hiring arrangement. Simply list each task, the quantity requested (if applicable), specific requirements, and any notes. This easy-to-use form serves as a final check so you don’t overlook any requirements as you prepare to officially close a project.

Risk Assessment Matrix

Before you embark on a project, you should perform a risk assessment. While you can’t control or prevent every possible risk, taking the time to assess the possible threats to your project will help you plan for and mitigate some hazards. This matrix allows you to perform a qualitative risk assessment, gauge the probability, and predict how each could affect your project budget, scope, and timeline. The template also provides space for you to list events that could trigger each risk, designate a respondee, and make notes for a response plan.

Download Risk Assessment Matrix:

Excel  |  Word  |  PDF  | Smartsheet

Customer List

This simple form allows you to list contact details for each customer or client. This list includes columns for the company; the name, title, email, and phone number of your contact; and any comments. You can or remove columns as necessary, and highlight or flag certain customers who you need to follow up with.

Inventory and Equipment Checklist

Use this template to keep track of inventory or equipment you either need or have newly acquired for a project. List each item number and name, followed by a description, date of purchase, cost, and other notes. Additionally, you can track initial value, loan details, and depreciation amounts for each piece of equipment in your inventory.

New Hire Checklist

This template is designed for human resources to ensure that a new employee (and other internal teams) complete all necessary onboarding tasks. The Excel spreadsheet includes columns for completing new hire paperwork and sending it to the appropriate parties, but you can edit the form to include any tasks that your organization requires of new hires. In addition, there is space to assign tasks to employees, to set due dates, and to list contact information.

Grocery List

Use this basic template to make a shopping list; you can fill it out on your computer or print and complete it by hand. In addition to providing an easy-to-read table, the template includes a checkbox column where you can mark off each item as you obtain it, as well as a column for individual items and total cost. This template is created with grocery shopping in mind, but you can edit it for retail, gifts, and other consumer needs.

‌Download Grocery List: 

Weekly Staff Meeting Template

Use this template to prepare for a recurring meeting. Note your agenda, attendees, action items, and whether or not the associated tasks have been completed. The template is designed with weekly meetings in mind, but you can edit the dates for a monthly, quarterly, or annual gathering.

Business Trip Checklist Template

Preparing for a business trip may include managing staff adjustments at work, making schedule changes with family members or caregivers at home, and taking on extra work to prepare for the trip — plus, packing everything you’ll need on the road. Use this business trip checklist template to help make the process more manageable and reduce the likelihood of forgetting a vital task or travel item. Edit the template to reflect your agenda, and then mark each item off your checklist as it’s completed. For personal use, you can also edit this template with relevant details for solo, family, or group travel.

‌ Download Excel Template Try Smartsheet Template   ‌

Student Planner Template

Students can plan for the week by using this free template to keep track of classes and assignments. The template includes columns for listing the due date and status of each assignment, which helps students stay organized, prioritize their workload, and meet deadlines with less stress.

Day Planner Template

This detailed day planner template provides multiple sections for planning various aspects of your day, from shopping needs to meals and appointments. There is also room for a general task list and a section to add items to be accomplished on another day. Customize the template by applying new labels to sections to match your daily routines.

Business Plan Checklist

Use this simple business plan template to organize project tasks. The template is divided into phases so you can list tasks chronologically; it also includes columns for start and end dates and duration. Plus, a simple checkbox allows you to clearly mark which steps have been completed so you know your exact progress.

Group Project Task List

This template is ideal for organizing the basics of a group project or any assignment that involves multiple people. Simply list each task, a description, an assignee, a due date, and any notes in the columns provided, and add more columns if needed. This template does not have project management capabilities, but will give you an overview of every individual task and who is responsible for it. For more full-scale project management templates, visit “ Top Project Management Excel Templates .”

Job Task Analysis Template

A job task analysis can be used to determine which actions are critical for a certain job. Identifying tasks in this manner can help determine the scope of a job, appraise employee performance, inform training methods, and improve work processes. On this template, you can list the tasks that are required to complete a job, then rate the importance of each task, along with how frequently the actions are performed. You can also document your source of information for each task.

‌ Download Word Template

Brainstorm and Collaboration Worksheet

Use this form to record information from a brainstorm or collaboration session. The template includes space to list ideas, their pros and cons, and the originator. In addition, there is a column for each team member to rank each idea. While this template doesn’t assist with idea generation, it enables you to keep all brainstorm information in one place so you can more easily compare ideas when it’s time to make a decision.

Download Brainstorm and Collaboration Worksheet:

Internal Audit Checklist

Use this template to prepare for a financial audit. The simple template includes rows for every required document in a standard audit (general ledger, balance and financial statements, tax reports, etc.) and a checkbox to note if an item has been reviewed and is attached. Add or subtract rows to include every document that your audit requires. To learn more about how best to prepare for a financial audit, read this  article .

Contact List

This Excel template can be used as a contact list for a variety of personal use cases, including for classes, group memberships, event attendees, or emergency communications. The template includes columns for phone, email, and address, as well as to note the preferred mode of contact. The form is fully customizable, so add or subtract sections as needed.

Download Contact List:

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When teams have clarity into the work getting done, there’s no telling how much more they can accomplish in the same amount of time.  Try Smartsheet for free, today.

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• Create a new workbook Article
• Insert or delete a worksheet Article
• Move or copy worksheets or worksheet data Article
• Print a worksheet or workbook Article
• Use Excel as your calculator Article
• Fill data automatically in worksheet cells Article
• Create a drop-down list Article

Create a drop-down list

You can help people work more efficiently in worksheets by using drop-down lists in cells. Drop-downs allow people to pick an item from a list that you create.

In a new worksheet, type the entries you want to appear in your drop-down list. Ideally, you’ll have your list items in an Excel table . If you don’t, then you can quickly convert your list to a table by selecting any cell in the range, and pressing Ctrl+T .

Why should you put your data in a table? When your data is in a table, then as you add or remove items from the list , any drop-downs you based on that table will automatically update. You don't need to do anything else.

Now is a good time to Sort data in a range or table in your drop-down list.

Select the cell in the worksheet where you want the drop-down list.

Go to the Data tab on the Ribbon, and then Data Validation .

Note:  If you can’t select  Data Validation , the worksheet might be protected or shared. Unlock specific areas of a protected workbook or stop sharing the worksheet, and then try step 3 again.

On the Settings tab, in the Allow box, select List .

Select in the Source box, then select your list range. We put ours on a sheet called Cities, in range A2:A9. Note that we left out the header row, because we don't want that to be a selection option:

If it’s OK for people to leave the cell empty, check the Ignore blank box.

Check the In-cell dropdown box.

Select the Input Message tab.

If you want a message to pop up when the cell is selected, check the Show input message when cell is selected box, and type a title and message in the boxes (up to 225 characters). If you don’t want a message to show up, clear the check box.

Select the Error Alert tab.

If you want a message to pop up when someone enters something that's not in your list, check the Show error alert after invalid data is entered box, pick an option from the Style box, and type a title and message. If you don’t want a message to show up, clear the check box.

Not sure which option to pick in the Style box?

To stop people from entering data that isn’t in the drop-down list, select Stop .

Note:  If you don't add a title or text, the title defaults to "Microsoft Excel" and the message to: "The value you entered is not valid. A user has restricted values that can be entered into this cell."

Working with your drop-down list

After you create your drop-down list, make sure it works the way you want. For example, you might want to check to see if Change the column width and row height to show all your entries.

If the list of entries for your drop-down list is on another worksheet and you want to prevent users from seeing it or making changes, consider hiding and protecting that worksheet. For more information about how to protect a worksheet, see Lock cells to protect them .

If you decide you want to change the options in your drop-down list, see Add or remove items from a drop-down list .

To delete a drop-down list, see Remove a drop-down list .

Download our examples

You can download an example workbook with multiple data validation examples like the one in this article. You can follow along, or create your own data validation scenarios. Download Excel data validation examples .

Data entry is quicker and more accurate when you restrict values in a cell to choices from a drop-down list.

Start by making a list of valid entries on a sheet, and sort or rearrange the entries so that they appear in the order you want. Then you can use the entries as the source for your drop-down list of data. If the list is not large, you can easily refer to it and type the entries directly into the data validation tool.

Create a list of valid entries for the drop-down list, typed on a sheet in a single column or row without blank cells.

Select the cells that you want to restrict data entry in.

On the Data tab, under Tools , select Data Validation or Validate .

Note:  If the validation command is unavailable, the sheet might be protected, or the workbook may be shared. You cannot change data validation settings if your workbook is shared or your sheet is protected. For more information about workbook protection, see Protect a workbook .

Select the Settings tab, and then in the Allow pop-up menu, select List .

Select in the Source box, and then on your sheet, select your list of valid entries.

The dialog box minimizes to make the sheet easier to see.

You can also type values separated by a comma directly into the Source box.

To modify the list of valid entries, simply change the values in the source list or edit the range in the Source box.

You can specify your own error message to respond to invalid data inputs. On the Data tab, select Data Validation or Validate , and then select the Error Alert tab.

Apply data validation to cells

In a new worksheet, type the entries you want to appear in your drop-down list. Ideally, you’ll have your list items in an Excel table .

Why should you put your data in a table? When your data is in a table, then as you add or remove items from the list , any drop-downs you based on that table automatically update. You don't need to do anything else.

Now is a good time to Sort your data in the order you want it to appear in your drop-down list.

Go to the Data tab on the Ribbon, then select Data Validation .

On the Settings tab, in the Allow box, select  List .

If you already made a table with the drop-down entries, select in the Source box, and then select and drag the cells that contain those entries. However, do not include the header cell. Just include the cells that should appear in the drop-down. You can also just type a list of entries in the Source box, separated by a comma like this:

Fruit,Vegetables,Grains,Dairy,Snacks

If you want a message to pop up when the cell is selected, check the Show message checkbox, and type a title and message in the boxes (up to 225 characters). If you don’t want a message to show up, clear the check box.

If you want a message to pop up when someone enters something that's not in your list, check the Show Alert checkbox, pick an option in Type , and type a title and message. If you don’t want a message to show up, clear the check box.

Select OK .

After you create your drop-down list, make sure it works the way you want. For example, you might want to check to see if Change the column width and row height to show all your entries. If you decide you want to change the options in your drop-down list, see Add or remove items from a drop-down list . To delete a drop-down list, see Remove a drop-down list .

Need more help?

You can always ask an expert in the Excel Tech Community  or get support in  Communities .

Add or remove items from a drop-down list

Video: Create and manage drop-down lists

Overview of Excel tables

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Practice And Learn Excel Online For Free

Welcome to Excel Practice Online!

Now you can practice Excel everywhere! You can even practice on your mobile phone!

Every function and tool has an explanation followed by an online excel exercise which can be solved within the page itself, no need to download anything – All thanks to the amazing powers of Excel Online!

The tutorials are sorted from beginner level to advanced level. If you like this site please share it with your friends! 🙂

Tip for mobile phone users – tap twice on the cell you want to edit in order to edit it.

• Free Excel Courses and Resources
• Excel Self-Assessment Tool
• Free Excel Online Exercises
• Excel Basics – Zero to Hero
• Excel Tests
• Top 10 formulas and functions in Excel
• Vlookup – Tutorial with Example and Exercise Sheet
• Pivot Tables Tutorial
• Excel Shortcuts – Windows and Mac
• HOT! – Excel Mortgage Calculator – Calculate your mortgage payments and get the payment schedule for the entire period of the loan – Step-by-step tutorial on how to build a Mortgage Calculator in Excel.
• New! Excel Online Cheat Sheet – A Quick Guide To Excel’s Web Version
• Can’t find what you’re looking for? Suggest a tutorial here!

• Excel Basics – Start here if you are new to Excel! Learn how Excel works, how to perform basic calculations, and how to use cell references to save time and increase efficiency!
• Addition (Plus)
• Subtraction (Minus)
• Multiplication
• Excel Shortcuts for Windows – Master Excel Shortcuts to save time and increase efficiency!
• Excel Shortcuts for Mac – Learn how to make the most of Excel on your Mac!

Formulas/Functions

• SUM function – Sum multiple values in Excel
• MAX – find the maximum value in a range
• MIN – find the minimum value in a range
• COUNT – Count numeric values in a range
• COUNTA – Count numeric and textual values
• AVERAGE – Calculate average of a range
• Filtering in Excel – Learn how to filter your data using Excel’s Filter Tool
• Excel Sort – Learn how to sort your data in Excel.
• Flash Fill – Excel’s hidden gem for auto-completing data based on a pattern
• Remove Duplicates – Remove duplicate values in a single column or multiple columns!

Intermediate

Conditional.

• IF function – check if a condition is met
• NESTED IF – Multiple if conditions
• Conditional Formatting – Format Excel Cells based on criteria
• COUNTIF – Count cells in range which meet a certain criteria
• SUMIF – Sum range based on criteria
• AVERAGEIF – Calculate the average of a range based on criteria
• SUMIFS – Sum cells using multiple criteria
• COUNTIFS – Count cells using multiple criteria
• MAXIFS – Find maximum value in a range based on criteria
• MINIFS – Find minimum value in a range based on criteria
• AND/OR – Check if multiple criteria are met (Works great when combined with an IF function!)
• ISBLANK – Check if a cell is blank or not

• VLOOKUP – lookup value and return corresponding value from a table
• HLOOKUP – lookup value and return corresponding value from a table
• Hot!!! XLOOKUP – Excel’s next generation lookup function which combines the best features from VLOOKUP, INDEX MATCH, HLOOKUP and IFERROR/IFNA

Pivot tables

• Pivot Table – Quickly Analyze and Summarize your data using Excel’s most powerful tool!

Text Formulas

• LEFT, MID, RIGHT – Basic Text Functions
• HOT! – TEXTBEFORE & TEXTAFTER – Extract text before or after a delimiter using Excel’s brand new powerful functions!
• HOT! – TEXTSPLIT – Split your text into multiple cells using this super powerful new function!
• TEXTJOIN – Easily combine multiple cells using delimiter
• CONCAT – Combine range of cells without delimiter
• CONCATENATE – Combine two cells or more into one cell
• LEN – Find the length of a cell
• FIND – Find the position of a text within another text (Case-sensitive)
• SEARCH – Find the position of a text within another text (Case-insensitive)
• SUBSTITUTE – Replace text with another text in a cell/expression
• TRIM – Remove extra spaces from the text
• LOWER, UPPER, PROPER – Convert text to lowercase, uppercase and proper case
• VALUE – Convert data stored as text into values
• TEXT – Convert and format numbers into text
• Text to Columns – Quickly split a column into multiple columns using a delimiter. Bonus – Quickly change date formats or convert text to numbers!
• FORMULATEXT – display a formula in another cell as text

Date functions

• DAY, MONTH, YEAR – Extract day, month and year from a date in Excel
• DATE – Create a date from individual values
• WEEKDAY – Return the number of the day of the week
• EOMONTH – Return the date of the last day of the month based on a specific date

Index & Match lookup

• INDEX – Retrieve cell in nth position in a range
• MATCH – Find position of value in a range
• INDEX MATCH – Just like VLOOKUP, only better.

Other advanced tools

• SUMPRODUCT – Sum the products of Excel ranges
• Excel Wildcards – Advanced searching and matching in Excel
• Advanced Filter – Filter by multiple criteria in the same column, or even in different columns!

Power Query

• Combine data from multiple Excel workbooks using Power Query
• Column from Examples tool – Learn the secret to mastering Power Query without any prior knowledge!
• Unpivot columns easily using Power Query

Secret Excel Functions

This section covers Excel functions that are not available in most of Excel’s versions. These functions will unlock a new set of capabilities such as fining only unique values, sorting, and filtering – the tutorials below will help you with mastering Excel’s new functions!

• UNIQUE – Extract unique values from a range
• SORT Function – Sort range dynamically
• SORTBY – Sort range dynamically by using another range
• FILTER Function – Filter range by specific criteria
• RANDARRAY – Create an array of random numbers 
• SEQUENCE – Create a range of sequential values
• LET – Assign values and calculations to names to improve your formula’s ease of use, readability, and performance!
• HOT! – LAMBDA – The mother of all functions that will help you create amazing and powerful custom functions for your own need! 
• VSTACK – Vertically stack arrays/ranges in Excel
• HSTACK – Horizontally stack arrays/ranges in Excel
• CHOOSEROWS – Return specific rows from a range or array
• CHOOSECOLS – Return specific columns from a range or array
• TOROW – Convert a range/array into a single row
• TOCOL – Convert a range/array into a single column

Financial Functions

Learn how to use Excel to make financial calculations!

• Excel Financial Calculator – quickly calculate PV, FV, PMT, NPV, IRR
• PMT – Calculate the periodic payment amount of a loan, mortgage, or another financial instrument
• PPMT & IPMT – Find the Principal and Interest portion of a certain payment
• PV – Find the Present Value of a loan, mortgage, or any other financial instrument 

Excel Macros – VBA (Visual Basic for Applications)

• Start here – How to run your first VBA Macro in Excel without knowing VBA? 

Excel Data Sheets for Practice

Want to do some freestyle practice? Create your own Excel playground with our blank excel Worksheet!

• Excel-Online Blank Worksheet
• Excel Practice Data

How to Calculate in Excel – Excel-Online Calculators

• How to Calculate GPA in Excel
• How to Calculate BMI in Excel
• How to Calculate Density in Excel
• How to Calculate Weighted Average in Excel

Lists in Excel (Download Link Available)

• List of Numbers in Excel –  Generate sequential or custom patterns of numbers for your Excel projects.
• ABC List in Excel –  Easily create alphabetical lists from A-Z for indexing, sorting, and categorization.
• List of U.S. States   in Excel –  Access a comprehensive list of all 50 U.S. states.
• Days of the Week in Excel –  A quick list of the days of the week, essential for scheduling and planning.
• Months of the Year in Excel –  Download a list of the 12 months of the year for time-based analyses.
• List of Colors in Excel –  Explore a list of standard color names for data visualization and UI design.
• Country List in Excel –  A global list of countries for international datasets or geographic studies.
• Holiday List in Excel –  A curated list of standard holidays for planning and project management.
• List of Currencies : A list of world currencies for financial modeling or international business.

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