Fix Data Validation Drop Downs in Excel on Mac

If your workflow is blocked, confirm the account and app context, then follow the ordered fixes below.

Problem Description: Data Validation Drop Downs

Excel data validation’s drop downs menus have stopped working within Excel.  I’ve done this many times (on this Mac), and know how to do it...it has just stopped working on my Mac. The data validation is active and appropriately won’t allow values not within the validation list.   The “In-cell Dropdown” box is checked.  In the data entry cell it shows a drop down menu….but nothing appears when it is clicked.  In the data validation list there are no blank cells. I’m stumped and would really appreciate any help. For background: -              I’m using  Mac running latest versions of MacOS (Tahoe 26.2) and and Microsoft Excel 16.104. -              I reinstalled Office today as a means of trying to resolve.  No luck.

Quick Answer for Excel Performance Problems Quick Fix

Provide additional details to narrow down the issue: whether it occurs in all workbooks or specific files, and across all worksheets/cells or only certain areas.

Likely Causes Behind Excel Failure Patterns

• The Microsoft account or license context may not match the purchase or device.

• Cached credentials, outdated builds, or damaged local components can trigger excel performance problems.

• A file-specific corruption or add-in conflict can mimic a broader application failure.

Recommended Solution: Installing Excel on a New PC

When to use this: Apply these steps when the symptoms match and you can access the relevant Microsoft account or administrator.

1. Share an example file with the same configuration via private message to protect personal data.

2. This will help provide a more accurate solution, as the issue could not be reproduced in a standard environment.

Alternative Solutions for Fallback Options for Excel Performance Problems

1. Retry the Microsoft-side steps after restarting the app and device.

2. Test the same action in a private browser session or a new blank file to isolate account vs file issues.

3. Capture exact error text and screenshots before contacting Microsoft Support or your administrator.

Working with WPS Office: Editing Files in WPS During Excel Performance Problems

WPS Office cannot replace Microsoft account, activation, or cloud fixes for this scenario. It remains one of the best free Microsoft Office-compatible alternatives for opening and editing local files.

1. Download and install WPS Office from the official website.

2. Open local Word, Excel, PowerPoint, or PDF files in the matching WPS app.

3. Save a working copy locally while Microsoft-side issues are resolved.

4. Return to Microsoft Office after the primary fix succeeds.

If you need a practical local workspace in the meantime, try WPS Office.

Prevention Tips for Smooth Excel Device Transfers

• Keep one primary Microsoft account for subscriptions and Office sign-in.

• Install updates for Office and Windows before retrying failed workflows.

• Back up important files before repair, reset, or reinstall actions.

• Document exact error messages before the next troubleshooting attempt.

FAQs About Excel Performance Problems Help Topics

Can WPS Office fix this excel performance problems issue directly? Only when the WPS steps match the formatting or file task. Account, activation, and cloud issues stay on the Microsoft side.

Should I reinstall Excel before trying these steps? Not first. Confirm account, license, and the exact error before reinstalling.

What should I send to Microsoft Support? The affected account email, device type, Office version, exact error text, and screenshots with personal data hidden.