How to Use Forms for Data Update in Excel

The built-in structure of columns and rows makes Microsoft Excel a popular application to use for creating and editing data tables. One way to update or enter new data into a selected area of an Excel worksheet is by creating a form. Forms limit you to the area in which you want data entered and you can use a form to quickly find existing data that you want to edit or update.

Instructions

Use Forms in Excel 2003

1

Click on a cell in the data table you want to update.

2

Go to the "Data" menu and select "Form." A data form opens.

3

Scroll through the records to find the data you want to update. You can also search for a specific entry by typing in specific criteria such as a name or record number. Click "Find Next" to go to that record.

4

Press the "Tab" key to move through the fields in the form. Update or edit any fields that you want to change.

5

Press "Enter" to apply the changes and move to the next record. Close the form window when you are done updating the data and save the changes to the worksheet.

Use Forms in Excel 2007

6

Add the "Form" button to the "Quick Access Toolbar" the first time you want to use a form, as it is not included in the Excel 2007 ribbon by default. Click the arrow at the right end of the "Quick Access Toolbar" and select "More Commands." Select "All Commands" under "Choose Commands From." Click on "Form Button" in the list and click "Add."

7

Click on a cell within the data table that you want to update. Click the "Form" button on the "Quick Access Toolbar." A data form opens.

8

Scroll through the records to find the data you want to update. You can also search for a specific entry by typing in specific criteria such as a name or record number. Click "Find Next" to go to that record.

9

Press the "Tab" key to move through the fields in the form. Update or edit any fields that you want to change.

10

Press "Enter" to apply the changes and move to the next record. Close the form window when you are done updating the data and save the changes to the worksheet.