How to Add Color to Drop Down List in Google Sheets (Easy Steps)

This article highlights how to add color to the drop down list in Google Sheets. Using a drop down list is very useful to choose a specific option from multiple options. Adding color to the drop down list makes it easier to differentiate between them. Follow the article to learn how to do that in a few easy steps.


Step by Step Procedure to Add Color to Dropdown List in Google Sheets

Consider the following picture showing a dropdown list with colors. The dropdown list is added to select if a player is Right Handed or Left Handed. But the colors added to the dropdown list made it much easier to know the difference.

add color to drop down list

Follow the steps below to learn how to add color to the drop down list in Google Sheets as shown above.


Step 1: Select the Range

  • First, select the range where you need to create the dropdown list. In this case, the cell range is D5:D11.

select range

Read More: Create Drop Down List in Google Sheets from Another Sheet


Step 2: Apply Data Validation

  • Then go to Data >> Data Validation as shown in the picture below.

apply data validation

  • Next, the Data Validation dialogue box will appear. In the dialogue box, you will see the cell range selected earlier. Change it if needed.
  • After that select List of items as Criteria. You can also choose other criteria using the dropdown list there. Then write the options that you need to add to the dropdown list and separate them with commas.
  • Next, check the Show dropdown list in cell checkbox and click on Save.

data validation criteria

  • After that, the dropdown list will be created as follows.

drop down list

Read More: How to Edit Data Validation in Google Sheets (With Easy Steps)


Step 3: Use Conditional Formatting

In the final step, you need to apply Conditional Formatting to change the color of the dropdown list.

  • First, select the range D5:D11 and go to Format>>Conditional Formatting. Then the dialog box for Conditional Format rules will appear.

apply conditional formatting

  • Here the range is previously selected. Now you can choose any formula as required from the Format Rules.

conditional format rules

  • In this case, choose Text contains from Format cells if option.

format cells if

  • Type the first option of the dropdown list i.e Right Handed in the Value or Formula box below.

format condition for first dropdown option

  • Then, select a color using the Fill Color option from the Formatting Style. This will add color to the first option of your dropdown list.

add color to first option in drop down list

  • Now add color to the Left Handed option by clicking Add another rule.

format condition for second dropdown option

  • Finally, you will get the following result.

add color to dro pdown list in google sheets

Read More: How to Use Data Validation in Google Sheets from Another Sheet


Things to Remember

  • Make sure you have selected the correct range before applying Data Validation.
  • You can also add color to a drop-down list in a single cell and drag it to copy as required.

Conclusion

Now you know how to add color to the drop down list in Google Sheets. Please use the comment section below for further queries or suggestions. Hopefully, it will help you to visualize your data more properly. You may also visit our OfficeWheel blog to explore more about Google Sheets.


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Maruf

Maruf

Hello everyone! This is Maruf Hasan. I am working as a Content Developer at Officewheel. Here we make content on google sheets. We share simple methods to make your google sheets journey enjoyable. I love solving problems, researching, and writing.

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