Department of Technology

TECH 394 - Tech Computer Applications

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List Forms

Some people use Excel to maintain databases - files containing lists of data.  You can have Excel create a list input form to automate the entry of data into such a list.   For example, if your workbook was used to compile quality control data, it might look like this:

If you designed the spreadsheet, you might know that new data is to be entered in the next row.  If you wanted someone else to do the entry, you might want them to use an input form.  To create the form, highlight the entire data block, including the labels.  Then press Data, Form.  A data form will be generated as shown:

The user can press New to enter data. (They must use the Tab key to move between input boxes.  Pressing Enter places the data into the next row in the spreadsheet, and clears the data boxes for another entry.)

You can also use the list box to search for specific pieces of information.   Press the Criteria button to clear all entries in the form.  Enter a value in one or more of the input boxes, and press return.  The first record to meet the criteria will appear in the form.  Use the Find Prev and Find Next buttons to seek other entries that also meet the criteria.

This feature may be useful when the data is stored on a hidden sheet.   The user may not be able to see the actual data, but will be able to make new entries, and search for specific data.