Data validation with dropdown list

[geotso]

In Excel 2007, some cells get values from a dropdown list, using the data
validation feature. Then, I use the custom format of ";;;" for the range of
cells that pass the values to the dropdown list, in order to hide their
contents from the user.

I'm pretty sure, that the first time I've tested it, the dropdown lists were
working alright. However, at a later time, after reopening the workbook, the
contents of all the dropdown lists that get values from cells with numbers
are disappeared. I now only see the contents of a dropdown list that gets
values from cells with text.

What have I done?
Help please!

 

[dhstein]

I tried it and got the same result. I have two suggestions - one is to hide
the entire column where the list is coming from - that works - the other is
to move the data far away to the right somewhere - sorry - but that's the
best I could come up with.

 

[geotso]

I tried it and got the same result. I have two suggestions - one is to
hide
the entire column where the list is coming from - that works - the other
is
to move the data far away to the right somewhere - sorry - but that's the
best I could come up with.

Thank you for your suggestions...

Well, waiting for an answer, I tried some tricks and finally ended up with
this one:

Format the font of the cells where the lists are coming from with white
color.
Unlock only the cells that a user should use.
Protect the sheet with just the "Select unlocked cells" option enabled.

Well, that's it! And I think it's close enough to what I was trying to
accomplish at first place!

Thanks again