Recommended Free Tools
To remove a drop-down list in Excel, select the cell or cells, open Data > Data Validation, choose Clear All on the Settings tab, then select OK. This removes the data-validation rule that creates the drop-down; it is not the same as deleting the cell’s existing value.
Remove a drop-down from one cell
- Select the cell containing the drop-down list.
- Open Data > Data Validation.
- On the Settings tab, select Clear All.
- Select OK to remove the validation rule.
Microsoft documents this method for Excel for Microsoft 365, Excel 2024, Excel 2021, Excel 2019, and Excel 2016 on Windows and Mac, as well as Excel for the web. See Microsoft’s instructions for removing a drop-down list.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Remove drop-downs from several cells
If you know which cells contain the lists, select them together before opening Data Validation. In Excel, you can Ctrl+click individual cells to add them to the selection, then use the same Clear All procedure.
Find cells with validation when their locations are unknown
- Press Ctrl+G to open Go To.
- Select Special, then choose Data Validation.
- Choose All to select cells with validation, or Same to select cells whose validation matches the active cell.
- Open Data > Data Validation, select Clear All on the Settings tab, and select OK.
Microsoft also documents Home > Find & Select > Data Validation as a way to find cells with validation. The available selection choices and steps are described in Microsoft’s overview of data validation.
#1 Best Overall
- Over 215 Microsoft Windows Excel Shortcuts
- Two-Sided Durable Laminiated Sheet
- Designed for Excel on a Windows Computer
Change the choices instead of removing the drop-down
If you want to keep the drop-down but change its options, edit the list’s source rather than clearing validation. Microsoft identifies four common source types:
- Comma-separated entries: Change the items entered directly in the validation source.
- Cell range: Edit the source cells or the range reference used by the list.
- Named range: Edit the cells in the named range or adjust the source reference.
- Table column: Edit the table’s items. A table-based list can update its associated drop-downs as items are added to or removed from the table.
Microsoft’s guide to adding or removing items from a drop-down list explains these source patterns.
Rank #2
- Instant Copilot. Unlock new possibilities with the dedicated Copilot key, which gives you instant access to experiences that can enhance your productivity¹.
- Enhance your experience With the new microphone mute key and snipping key
- Full keyboard experience. Features a full mechanical keyset, backlit keys, and a large trackpad for precise navigation and control. Optimal key spacing allows fast, fluid typing.
- Slim and compact Performs like a traditional, full-size keyboard.
- Clicks in place instantly Use in combination with the Surface Pro (11th Edition), Pro 9 and Pro 8* kickstand for a perfect laptop experience anywhere.
If Data Validation settings are unavailable
A protected worksheet or a shared workbook can prevent changes to validation settings. Check whether either restriction applies before troubleshooting the list itself. Microsoft covers these limits in its guide to applying data validation to cells.
Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minutePC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Clearing validation removes the rule that supplies the drop-down. The cited Microsoft instructions do not say that this operation deletes the selected cell’s existing entry, so treat removing the list and erasing a value as separate tasks.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 💻 ✔️ EVERY ESSENTIAL SHORTCUT - With the SYNERLOGIC Reference Keyboard Shortcut Sticker, you have the most important shortcuts conveniently placed right in front of you. Easily learn new shortcuts and always be able to quickly lookup commands without the need to “Google” it.
- 💻✔️ Work FASTER and SMARTER - Quick tips at your fingertips! This tool makes it easy to learn how to use your computer much faster and makes your workflow increase exponentially. It’s perfect for any age or skill level, students or seniors, at home, or in the office.
- 💻 ✔️ New adhesive – stronger hold. It may leave a light residue when removed, but this wipes off easily with a soft cloth and warm, soapy water. Fewer air bubbles – for the smoothest finish, don’t peel off the entire backing at once. Instead, fold back a small section, line it up, and press gradually as you peel more. The “peel-and-stick-all-at-once” method only works for thin decals, not for stickers like ours.
- 💻 ✔️ Compatible and fits any brand laptop or desktop running Windows 10 or 11 Operating System.
- 💻 ✔️ Original Design and Production by Synerlogic Electronics, San Diego, CA, Boca Raton, FL and Bay City, MI, United States 2020. All rights reserved, any commercial reproduction without permission is punishable by all applicable laws.
Rank #4
- Efficient Media Controls: The Wired Keyboard 600, designed by Microsoft, features a Media Center with four hot keys for easy control of play/pause, volume up, volume down, and mute functions.
- Quiet and Responsive Keys: Enjoy a comfortable typing experience with quiet, thin-profile keys that are both responsive and efficient.
- Convenient Shortcuts: Quickly access common tasks with dedicated shortcut keys, including a calculator hot key and a Windows start screen key.
- Spill-Resistant Design: Work confidently with a spill-resistant design that protects your keyboard from accidental messes.
- Plug-and-Play Simplicity: No software needed—just connect the keyboard to your PC and start using it right away, with a full number pad for efficient data entry.
Rank #3
- EXCEL SHORTCUTS. ZERO SEARCHING. – Our bestselling reference mat puts an extensive collection of commonly used commands, formulas and helpful tricks directly beneath your fingertips so you can find answers fast, work smarter and stay in the flow.
- YOUR DESK. SMARTER. – Clearly organized sections for navigation, selection, formatting, data and functions make it easy to find the right Excel command exactly when you need it.
- LEARN, WORK & RESET – Built-in desk-exercise diagrams give you 10 quick ways to stretch, recharge and return to work feeling sharper.
- ROOM TO WORK & CREATE – The extended 31.5 x 11.8-inch Pixiecube desk mat fits a laptop or keyboard and mouse, while the soft 2 mm surface adds comfort and protects your desktop.
- BUILT FOR REAL-WORLD WORKDAYS – A rugged stitched edge helps prevent fraying, and the water-resistant, stain-resistant surface protects against scratches, spills and everyday wear—because smarter desks should work harder.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
