We’re going to combine the data validation control with the conditional formatting feature in order to apply a font color to the selected list value.

By combining Excel’s GROUPBY function with dynamic formulas, data validation lists, and conditional formatting, you can create an interactive data summary with robust drill-down capabilities.

Data validation is the foundation of creating drop-down lists in Excel. By setting up data validation rules, you can create lists that automatically update as your data changes.

This illustrated walk-through (with a demo worksheet) shows how easy it is to create a multi-column search solution using validation lists and conditional formatting.

Learn how to create a drop-down list using Data Validation in Excel. Data Validation limits the type of data that can be entered into a cell.