How to Create a Data Source in Excel – 6 Steps

“Running Project of DPR Construction”is the sample dataset.

Recreate it:

Step 1 – Create a Basic Outline

• Select a cell to create the borders.

• Go to Borders > All Borders.

• Press Enter and see the output.

Merge cells to create a heading to the dataset.

• Select B2:G2 and go to Merge & Center.

This is the output.

• Enter the title “Creating Data Source”.

Step 2 – Enter Numerical Data

• Enter 100242 in B5.

• All data in Project ID is tagged 100242. Drag down the Fill Handle to fill the rest of the cells.

• If you want to increment the number by 1, enter 100242 and 100243 in the first two cells and drag the Fill Handle tool.

Step 3 – Enter Dates

• Enter 1/2/2024 in C5.

• Enter dates in C5:C13.

Step 4 – Create a Drop-Down List

• Select Data > Data Validation.

• In the dialog box, select Settings > choose List in Allow.

• In the Source dialog box, click the Upward arrow.

• Enter your drop-down list data in this box. Here, Arizona, Hawaii, Ohio, Washington, Idaho, Arizona, Kansas, Arizona, and Florida.

• Click OK.

This is the output.

• Drag the Fill Handle tool from D5 to D13 to enable those cells with the drop-down feature created in D5.

This is the output.

Step 5 – Enter Currency Data

• Select the column to add a dollar sign.

• Go to the Home tab and select Number Format > Currency.

• Enter data to see the output.

Step 6 – Format the Input Data

• Select the cells to enter text data.
• Select Middle Align and Center in Alignment.

• Enter text data.

See the output below.

Add a column to enter “Yes” or “No”, indicating whether a region is prone to flooding.

• Select column G.
• Enter “Yes” or “No”.

Read More: How to Create Excel Data Connection to Another Excel File

Practice Section

Practice here.

Download Practice Workbook

Download the workbook and practice.

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