How to add tick and cross symbols into drop down list in Excel?
Adding tick and cross symbols into a drop-down list in Excel can make your spreadsheets more visually intuitive, especially for status tracking, to-do lists, approvals, and quality checks. Using recognizable symbols like ✓ and 
in drop-down lists can help users quickly understand, select, and communicate statuses without confusion. These visual cues are highly effective for busy worksheets, collaborative projects, and dashboards where clarity and speed are essential.
Normally, after inserting tick and cross symbols using the Symbol function and creating a drop-down list from them as the data source, the results display as ü or û instead of the intended symbols in the drop-down cells. This guide shows how to display the actual ✓ and symbols in cells from a drop-down list and offers several practical solutions. Each method is suited to different skill levels and requirements, so you can choose the approach that fits your needs best.
Add tick and cross symbols into drop down list with VBA code
Add tick and cross symbols into drop down list with Kutools for Excel
Add tick and cross dropdown using Excel formula-based data validation
Add tick and cross dropdown using built-in data validation referencing Unicode symbols
Add tick and cross symbols into drop down list with VBA code
With the below VBA code, you can insert tick and cross drop-down lists into specified cells in Excel. This method involves some scripting but offers full automation and flexibility. It is suitable for users comfortable with the VBA editor and those who need to apply symbol-based drop-down lists across large or complex ranges.
Possible advantages of this method include full control of the target range and symbol logic, and the option to further customize the behavior. However, if your file will be shared in environments with macro security restrictions, some users may be prompted to enable macros, which is a consideration for shared or public workbooks.
1. In the worksheet where you want to create tick and cross symbol drop-down lists, right click the sheet tab and select View Code from the context menu.
2. The Microsoft Visual Basic for Applications window will open. In the worksheet’s code window, copy and paste the VBA code provided below. This code will help automate the setup of tick and cross symbol options as the data validation choices.
VBA code1: Add tick and cross symbols into drop down list
Private Sub Worksheet_Change(ByVal Target As Range)
'Update by Extendoffice
If Intersect(Target, Range("B1:B10")) Is Nothing Then Exit Sub
If Target.Value = "Tick" Then
Target.Value = "P"
ElseIf Target.Value = "Cross" Then
Target.Value = "S"
End If
End Sub
3. Next, click Insert > Module in the VBA window, and then paste the following second code into the new module window. This module code provides the subroutine that applies the drop-down setup to your chosen range.
VBA code2: Add tick and cross symbols into drop down list
Sub usingSymbols()
'Update by Extendoffice
Dim xRg As Range
Set xRg = Range("B1:B10")
xRg.Font.Name = "Wingdings 2"
xRg.Validation.Add xlValidateList, , , "Tick,Cross"
End SubNote: In the provided code, the range is set to B1:B10 for demonstration. You can change this range to match the cells where you require the tick and cross drop-down. Make sure your selected target cells have the appropriate font (such as Segoe UI Symbol or Wingdings 2) capable of displaying the chosen symbols correctly.
4. Press the F5 key to run the code.
Now the tick and cross symbol drop-down lists are inserted into the specified range. When you select Tick from the drop-down, ✓ is inserted into the cell, and selecting Cross will display . If the symbols do not show as intended, double-check that the correct font is applied in your cells. See screenshot:
If you encounter a macro error, ensure you have enabled macros in your Excel settings. Some corporate environments restrict macro use, so check your organization’s security policy. If you make changes to the cell range or symbol type, remember to re-run the macro to update the drop-down list.
Add tick and cross symbols into drop down list with Kutools for Excel
With Kutools for Excel's Batch Insert Check Synbols feature, you can effortlessly insert a variety of tick and cross symbols into your worksheet. This approach is especially suited for users who prefer not to use VBA code or formulas and want a quick, visual setup. Once inserted, you can use the Quickly Create Drop-down List feature to turn them into a professional-looking drop-down list with visual symbols — ideal for to-do lists, feedback forms, or project task sheets. No formulas or coding required, making it accessible for all Excel users.
After installing Kutools for Excel, please do the following:
Step1: Insert a variety of tick and cross symbols into the worksheet
- Click Kutools > Insert > Batch Insert Checkbox Symbols. See screenshot:
- In the pop-up dialog, simply select the tick or cross symbols you want, then click to insert them into the selected cells.
Step2: Create a drop-down list with tick and cross symbols
- Click Kutools > Drop-down list > Quickly Create Drop-down List. See screenshot:
- In the dialog that appears:
- Select the cells where you want to create the drop-down lists with tick and cross symbols.
- Select the Refer to cells option.
- Then, choose the range containing the tick and cross symbols you inserted in the worksheet.
- Click OK.
Now you’ve set up a clean drop-down list with tick and cross symbols for your chosen cells. Whenever someone clicks one of these cells, they can instantly select the tick (✓) or cross (), streamlining task tracking or review notes.
✅ Why Use the Batch Insert Check Synbols Tool?
- 🖱️ One-click batch insertion: Instantly insert multiple symbols into the selected range without copying and pasting.
- 🎨 Multiple style options: Choose from various built-in checkmarks, crosses, and shape symbols to match your layout and visual preferences.
- 📌 Auto cell navigation: Automatically move to the next row or column after insertion for faster data entry.
- ✅ Simple and formula-free: No formulas, no manual typing — just select a symbol and go.
- 👀 What you see is what you get: Inserted symbols appear immediately — no extra formatting needed.
- Try Kutools for Excel Now
Add tick and cross dropdown using Excel formula-based data validation
Sometimes, you may want to build a tick and cross symbol drop-down list purely using Excel's built-in features, without relying on VBA or add-ins. One powerful approach is to use data validation with a formula that dynamically references cells containing your symbols. This method is ideal for environments where macros are not allowed, or for users working with shared workbooks and standard Excel installs.
Applicable scenarios: This approach works well for collaborative documents or shared files, as it requires no macros or plugins. You have flexibility over how you arrange and update the symbols, as they live in worksheet cells and can be easily changed.
- Pros: No coding, dynamic reference to symbol cells lets you update your drop-down symbols at any time, universally compatible with Excel.
- Cons: Requires setting up a helper range in your worksheet and attention to symbol font compatibility.
Here's how to set it up:
- Choose two cells on your worksheet (for example, D1 and D2), and enter ✓ in D1 and
in D2. If needed, insert the symbols using Insert > Symbol, and choose a Unicode font like Segoe UI Symbol or Arial Unicode MS. - Select the cell or range where you want your tick/cross drop-down (e.g., E1:E20).
- Go to Data > Data Validation > Data Validation...
- In the Data Validation dialog, choose Allow:List. Click in the Source box, then highlight cells D1:D2.
- Click OK. Your cells now have a drop-down list displaying ✓ and .
- Optional tips: To avoid display issues, set the font of your drop-down cells (and symbol range) to a Unicode-compliant font such as Segoe UI Symbol, Calibri, Arial Unicode MS, or similar. This ensures the correct display of the tick and cross symbols across different computers and versions of Excel.
You can easily update your symbols in D1 or D2 at any time, and the drop-down list updates instantly. If you copy the list to another sheet, ensure the source cell references are adjusted accordingly. If you share your file, remind colleagues to keep the symbol range unchanged for data consistency.
Add tick and cross dropdown using built-in data validation referencing Unicode symbols
Another straightforward method is to create a standard data validation drop-down by manually entering Unicode tick and cross symbols directly into the data validation list, or by referencing cells in the worksheet that contain these symbols. This method is quick, does not require formulas or code, and will typically meet your needs for most personal and business uses.
Applicable scenarios: Recommended for those who want the fastest setup with minimal steps, and for projects where users and reviewers may not have advanced technical skills. This approach is also ideal if you frequently need to add or update the drop-down symbols, as you can easily copy and paste them where needed.
- Pros: Easiest to implement, no coding or add-ins, very user-friendly for all skill levels. Ideal for small projects or quick checklists.
- Cons: Slightly less flexible than the dynamic reference approach if you later want to update symbols everywhere from a single source cell.
To use this method:
- Copy the Unicode tick (✓) and cross () symbols from this page or from the Insert Symbol dialog in Excel.
- Select the target cell(s) for the drop-down list.
- Go to Data > Data Validation > Data Validation...
- Set Allow: to List.
- In the Source field, type:
✓, - Click OK to finish.
- Ensure your cells use a font such as Segoe UI Symbol or Arial Unicode MS to properly display the tick and cross.
If you prefer, you may also reference a small range containing your desired symbols as described in the previous section, then set the Source as that range (e.g., =Sheet1!$D$1:$D$2). If you encounter display issues, double-check font settings and ensure the worksheet supports Unicode characters. Note: If Excel displays substitute characters (such as ü or û instead of the intended symbols), change the font until you see the actual tick and cross.
This method requires no VBA or add-ins, and is the most widely compatible with all Excel versions and user environments.
✅ Conclusion
Whether you prefer coding your own solution, using professional add-ins, or relying on Excel's built-in features, you have several approaches to suit your requirements:
- If you're comfortable with VBA, you can create a drop-down list with tick and cross symbols through custom scripting — giving you full control over how it works. This method is flexible, but may need additional consideration for macro security and compatibility.
- If you want a faster, no-code solution, Kutools for Excel offers a user-friendly interface that lets you quickly insert symbols and generate drop-down lists in just a few clicks. This is especially suitable for teams that value efficiency and professional appearance.
- For environments requiring maximum compatibility, or for shared workbooks, try built-in Excel data validation with cell-referenced lists or by directly entering Unicode symbols. These methods are easy, highly portable, and avoid potential compatibility complications with macros or add-ins.
Choose the method that fits your needs, and make your Excel checklists smarter, cleaner, and more intuitive! For a deeper dive into Excel techniques, visit our website for thousands of practical tutorials to further improve your Excel skills. If you run into issues such as symbols not displaying correctly, first try adjusting your cell fonts to a Unicode-compatible font. For data validation that does not seem to work, double-check your reference range and ensure the cell data types are set to General.
Related articles:
- How to auto populate other cells when selecting values in Excel drop down list?
- How to autocomplete when typing in Excel drop down list?
- How to create a drop down list calendar in Excel?
- How to create drop down list with multiple selections or values in Excel?
- Add tick and cross dropdown using Excel formula-based data validation
- Add tick and cross dropdown using built-in data validation referencing Unicode symbols
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