How to Create a Drop Down List in Word

Adding a drop down list form control to a Word document allows users to select from a predefined list of options. This makes forms more interactive and easier to complete. In this tutorial, I’ll show you how to make a simple drop down menu in Word.

Introduction

A drop down list box displays a list of selectable choices in a collapsed, dropdown format. When clicked it expands to show the available options.

Benefits of using a drop down in Word:

• Saves space by collapsing unused choices
• Prevents incorrect entries
• Makes selecting options more intuitive
• Allows choice of one item from a set

To create a dropdown menu in Word, follow these key steps:

1. Enable the Developer tab
2. Insert the drop down form field
3. Add choices to the drop down
4. Set a default value
5. Format appearance
6. Lock and protect the form

Step 1: Enable Developer Tab

First, you need to enable the Developer tab in the Word ribbon, as this contains the controls to insert form elements.

Go to File > Options > Customize Ribbon and check the box to display the Developer tab.

Step 2: Insert Drop Down Form Field

On the Developer tab, click Design Mode to unlock controls for inserting form fields.

Click the Combo Box icon to insert the drop down list form element into the document.

Step 3: Add Choices to the Drop Down

With the combo box inserted, right click on it and choose Properties. This will open the choices configuration.

Under Properties, fill in the dropdown choices you want in the Choices field. Enter one choice per line.

Step 4: Set Default Value

Still in Properties, set the default value for the dropdown under Default value. This will be the initial selected option when the form opens.

Step 5: Format Appearance

Resize the dropdown box as needed, and customize the font type, size and color to match your document’s style.

Step 6: Lock and Protect Form

Make sure to lock the dropdown control so users can’t edit choices. Also consider protecting the document form.

Now you have an interactive dropdown menu for your Word form. Use dropdowns for intuitive option selection.