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Fix Microsoft Lists Number Column Removing Decimal Points

Chanuka Geekiyanage Oct 1, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user needs to prevent Microsoft Lists from automatically removing decimal points and converting decimal values into whole numbers.

Fix Microsoft Lists Number Column Removing Decimal Points

Product: Microsoft Lists
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Entering decimal numerical data into a standard Number column within Microsoft Lists.
Observed behavior: The Number column drops the decimal point entirely upon entry, changing values like 13.167 to 13167 instead of preserving the decimal formatting.

Before you start

Ensure you have the necessary List Owner or Site Member permissions to access and modify column settings in your Microsoft List.

Solution 1Recommended

Verify and Update Number Column Settings

Check the specific column settings to ensure it is explicitly configured to allow and display decimal places.

By default, Microsoft Lists might be set to 'Automatic' decimal places, which can occasionally cause formatting display issues depending on the region or server configuration. Explicitly setting the decimal places can resolve this.

Access List Settings

Open your Microsoft List, click the gear icon in the top right corner, and select 'List settings'.

Edit the Number Column

Scroll down to the 'Columns' section and click on the name of the Number column that is dropping decimals.

Set Decimal Places

In the column settings page, look for the 'Number of decimal places' option. Change it from 'Automatic' to the specific number of decimal places you need (e.g., 3).

Save Changes

Click 'OK' at the bottom of the page to save the changes, then return to your list to test entering a decimal number.

Verify and Update Number Column Settings

Regional Settings: Ensure your SharePoint site's regional settings match your expected decimal separator (e.g., a period vs. a comma), as a mismatch can cause the system to ignore the decimal point.

Solution 2

Isolate the Issue Across Different Lists

Determine if the decimal dropping behavior is a localized list error or a broader server-side tenant issue.

Solution 3

Escalate to Microsoft 365 Support

Contact Microsoft Support if the issue persists across all lists, as it indicates a known backend processing error.

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Use WPS Spreadsheet for Reliable Data Management

If cloud-based list tools like Microsoft Lists are causing unexpected data formatting bugs, consider migrating your tabular data management to WPS Spreadsheet. It provides absolute control over number formatting, ensuring your decimals stay exactly where you put them.

1. Download and Install WPS Office: Get the free WPS Office suite from the official website and launch WPS Spreadsheet.
2. Input Your Data: Type your decimal values (e.g., 13.167) into the cells; WPS Spreadsheet respects your exact input by default.
3. Format Cells: Right-click the data, select 'Format Cells', and go to the 'Number' tab to lock in your desired decimal places universally.

Precise control over custom number formats and decimal places100% compatible with Microsoft Excel (.xlsx) file formatsFree, lightweight, and works perfectly offlineFamiliar interface for users transitioning from Access or Excel

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I set a default number of decimal places in Microsoft Lists?

Yes. When you create or edit a Number column in Microsoft Lists, you can change the 'Number of decimal places' setting from 'Automatic' to a specific number (from 0 to 5).

Why is my SharePoint or Microsoft List ignoring the decimal point entirely?

This usually happens due to a mismatch in Regional Settings (e.g., using a period when the system expects a comma for decimals) or a temporary server-side processing bug in Microsoft 365.

How do I fix Regional Settings in Microsoft Lists?

Regional settings are inherited from the SharePoint site. A Site Owner can change this by going to Site Settings > Regional settings, and ensuring the Locale matches your standard number formatting preferences.

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