In-Cell Instructions

[mckillmt]

I want to have 'in-cell' instructions (i.e. "Enter Length Here"). I want the
instructions to be in a light grey, and when the user enters their data (into
the same cell as the instructions), the number is in black. How to I get the
cell to automatically change colors from grey to black when a user enters
data?

 

[Mike H]

Hi,

Use conditional formatting.

Select the cell then
Format|Conditional format - Cell Value is- 'Equal to'
In the input box enter your text prompt
Click format and select a light grey colour for the font - OK

Mike

 

[Gary''s Student]

You have two easy options:

1. Insert a Comment in the cell. The comment will appear wheneven a
mouse-over occurs

2. Insert a Data Validation message in the cell. The message will appear
whenever the cell is clicked.

 

[Jim Thomlinson]

The attached link describes doing exactly what you have asked but it is a bit
fussy to do...

http://spreadsheetpage.com/index.php/oddity/the_camera_tool/

Alternatively you can look at using conditional fomrats and data validation
to highlight the cells necessary to be input and validation to give
instructions.

My personal preference is to use colour to denote meaning. All of the cells
that I expect the user to use are left white. Everything else is coloured (in
subdued shades) to organize the page into logical groupings.