Excel: Data Validation Warning Alerts

Key insights

• Data Validation: This YouTube Short explains how Excel's Data Validation controls what users can enter into cells to keep spreadsheets accurate and consistent.
  
• Warning Alert: A Warning Alert shows a customizable message when users enter data that doesn't meet rules, letting them correct or keep the entry before Excel accepts it.
  
• Error Alert styles: Excel offers three alert styles—Stop (blocks entry), Warning (asks to confirm), and Information (shows a tip). Each style uses a clear icon and behavior to guide users.
  
• Input Message: You can add an optional Input Message that appears when a cell is selected to give brief instructions or examples of valid entries.
  
• Steps to apply: Select target cells → go to the Data tab → click Data Validation → set criteria on Settings → add an Input Message (optional) → customize the Error Alert with style and text.
  
• Benefits: Using validation and warning alerts improves data integrity, reduces entry errors, speeds analysis, and helps users enter the right information with less friction.
  

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