Data Validation - first part of an entry

[energman58]

Hello - is is possible to use data validation to ensure that the first part of an entry matches a particular pattern? What I want to do is make sure that the first part of an entry in B2 is REF - I dont care if it is REF, REF123, REFUND, REFER or REF# - as long as the first 3 characters match.

Thanks

 

[circledchicken]

Hi,

Yes, in the Data Validation 'Allow' section, select Custom and enter this formula:

=LEFT(B2,3)="REF"

 

[energman58]

AAAArgh! I had tried that but had forgotten the first equal sign!

Dont you just hate it when you do that

Thanks for your help

 

[circledchicken]

Haha, yeah thats annoying! - your welcome