Data Validation question

  • Thread starter Thread starter Colin MacDougall
  • Start date Start date
C

Colin MacDougall

I am trying to use the data validation 'error alert' feature
to bring up a warning if the value of a cell exceeds a limit,
but how I want it to work is say for example that cell A3 has
the data validation set and also has the formula =SUM(A1:A2)
then if a value is entered in to either cell A1 or A2 the
warning would show when the derived value of A3 exceeds the
limit. I can't get it to work except when I enter a value
directly in to A3.
Can this be made to work ? or is there another way ?

thanks,

Colin
 
Select cell A1:A2
Choose Data>Validation
From the Allow dropdown, choose Custom
In the Formula box, enter: =$A$3<=100
(change the 100 to your target number)
Click OK
 
Debra Dalgleish said:
Select cell A1:A2
Choose Data>Validation
From the Allow dropdown, choose Custom
In the Formula box, enter: =$A$3<=100
(change the 100 to your target number)
Click OK
Click to expand...

Thanks Debra, this is exactly what I was looking for.

Colin
 
Hi Colin,

I understand that the validation is only exercised when the cell wit
the validation is amended. I could be wrong, if so can someone pleas
advise. (I am using 97)

A good workaround is to put the same validation inot cells A1 and A
where the validation checks the sum of the cells and then provides th
warning message when the value is exceeded
 
Back
Top