SharePoint Document Issues

How to Change the Default Value in a SharePoint Choice Column

Natalie Taylor Oct 12, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user needs to change or update the default value that automatically populates in a SharePoint Choice column.

How to Change the Default Value in a SharePoint Choice Column

Product: Microsoft SharePoint
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Modifying list or library settings to ensure new items receive the correct default choice value.
Observed behavior: A SharePoint Choice column continues to populate a previously configured default value until the column settings are manually updated.

Before you start

Ensure you have the necessary Edit or Design permissions for the specific SharePoint list or document library to modify column settings.

Solution 1Recommended

Change the Default Value in the Modern SharePoint Interface

Use this method if you are using the default, updated SharePoint Online experience.

The modern SharePoint interface allows you to easily edit column settings directly from the list or library view without navigating to a separate settings page.

Open your list or library

Navigate to the specific SharePoint list or document library containing the Choice column you want to modify.

Access Column settings

Click on the header of the Choice column, select 'Column settings' from the dropdown menu, and then choose 'Edit'.

Update the Default Value

In the settings pane that appears on the right side of the screen, scroll down to the 'Default Value' section. Select your new desired default choice from the dropdown menu, or clear it if needed.

Save your changes

Click the 'Save' button at the bottom of the pane to apply the new default value to your column.

Change the Default Value in the Modern SharePoint Interface

Permanent Disabling Not Supported: SharePoint does not offer a setting to permanently prevent a default value from being used. You can only change it or set it to an empty choice if your column setup allows.

Solution 2

Change the Default Value in the Classic SharePoint Interface

Follow these steps if your organization still uses the classic SharePoint interface or if you are managing complex list settings.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I permanently disable default values for a SharePoint Choice column?

No, SharePoint currently does not provide a built-in option to permanently prevent a default value from being used. If this behavior affects your workflow, Microsoft recommends submitting product feedback.

Will changing the default value update existing items in my SharePoint list?

No. Updating a column's default value only applies to new items created after the change. Existing list items will retain the value they had when they were created or last edited.

Why is my 'Column settings' option missing in the modern interface?

If you do not see the 'Column settings' or 'Edit' option, you likely do not have sufficient permissions. You need at least 'Edit' or 'Design' permissions on the specific list or library to modify column configurations.

Document & File Issues