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How to Fix Excel 2021 Autocomplete Not Working in Drop-Down Lists
Question details
The user needs to restore the autocomplete functionality for data-validation drop-down lists in Excel 2021.
- Product
- Microsoft Excel 2021
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Entering data into spreadsheet cells using data-validation drop-down lists.
- Observed behavior
- Autocomplete fails to work when typing in drop-down lists in certain Excel 2021 preview builds (such as build 16.0.18129.20100), even after repairing the Office suite or modifying autocomplete settings.
Verify your current Excel build version by navigating to File > Account > About Excel to confirm if you are on the affected Current Channel Preview build.
Update Office or Switch to the Current Channel
Updating to the newest Current Channel build resolves the autocomplete bug found in the preview build.
The autocomplete issue in data-validation drop-down lists is a known bug in specific Current Channel Preview builds (e.g., 16.0.18129.20100). Standard repair tools will not fix it. You must either force an update to a newer preview build or switch back to the stable Current Channel.
Open Excel, go to File > Account, click on Update Options, and select Update Now to see if a newer preview build is available.
If no native update fixes it, prepare to switch your software to the Current Channel version 2410, build 16.0.18129.20116, which does not have this bug.
Use the Office Deployment Tool with an XML configuration file set to the stable Current Channel to overwrite the buggy preview build.
Configure the Office Deployment Tool
Use the official Office Customization Tool to generate an XML file to safely switch your update channel.
Try WPS Office for a Stable, Bug-Free Spreadsheet Experience
If you are experiencing persistent bugs with Microsoft Excel's preview builds, consider switching to WPS Office. It provides a lightweight, highly compatible alternative for managing data-validation drop-down lists without the hassle of complex deployment tools.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website and download the free installation package for your operating system.
- 2. Install the suite: Run the installer and follow the simple on-screen instructions to set up the software.
- 3. Open your spreadsheets: Launch WPS Spreadsheets and open your existing .xlsx files to instantly use your drop-down lists without errors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did autocomplete suddenly stop working in my Excel drop-down lists?
This is typically caused by a known software bug in specific Microsoft Excel preview updates, such as the Current Channel Preview build 16.0.18129.20100.
Does repairing Office fix the drop-down autocomplete issue?
No. In the case of this specific preview build bug, using the built-in Office repair tool or resetting autocomplete settings will not resolve the issue. You must update your build or switch update channels.
How do I find out which channel of Excel I am currently using?
Open Excel, click on 'File' in the top-left corner, select 'Account', and look under 'Product Information' to see your exact version, build number, and update channel.
What is the Office Deployment Tool used for?
The Office Deployment Tool (ODT) is a command-line application used to download and deploy Microsoft 365 or Office 2021. It allows users to specify exact update channels and configurations via an XML file.
