*Running* count of characters in a cell

[jkeyes]

I want to have a running count of characters in a cell. I would just use the Len formula, however, that only returns a value upon hitting enter or selecting another cell. I need a way to show, in real time, the count of characters being entered into a cell.

If the solution requires VBA/an entry userform, I'm prepared to do that (though not my first choice). I just need to know how to appraoch it... thanks in advance for any and all help!!!

 

[Juan Pablo González]

Macros can't run when you're in edit mode... which is what you are when you're entering data in a cell. So, unless you can enter the data through a different method, there's no way that I know of.

 

[texasalynn]

why? Are you trying to limit the number of characters to be entered in a cell? If so you can use data validation.

 

[jkeyes]

The cell in question is a spot for the user to enter a tagline or slogan. They are limited to the number of characters used, and I want them to see how many they have remaining as they enter them.

 

[jkeyes]

Can I use the LEN function to determine the characters being entered into a textbox on a userform in real time, with the value returned to a label on the userform?

 

[Norie]

Yes.

Add a tetxbox and a label.

Double click the textbox.

Private Sub TextBox1_Change()
    Label1 = Len(TextBox1)
End Sub

 

[jkeyes]

Thanks... I actually just found this thread too... http://www.mrexcel.com/board2/viewtopic.php?t=105012&highlight=count+characters+textbox

Thanks again!

 

[Juan Pablo González]

Yes, you do that using the _Change event of a TextBox.