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You are learning Sorting and Filtering in MS Excel

How to create dynamic filter views based on user input in Excel?

There are two main approaches to create dynamic filter views based on user input in Excel:

1. Using the FILTER Function:

This method leverages the FILTER function to display a filtered subset of data based on user input in another cell. Here's a basic example:

* Let's say you have data in a table format (A1:E10) with headers in row 1.
* In another cell (e.g., F1), you can enter your search criteria (text or number).
* In a separate area (below your table or on another sheet), use the FILTER function:

```excel
=FILTER(A2:E10, MATCH("*"&F1&"*", A2:A10, 0))
```

- This formula will look for any entry in column A (A2:A10) that contains the text entered in cell F1 (wildcard search with "*").
- It will then return the entire row (all columns A:E) for matching entries.

2. Using Data Validation and Advanced Filtering:

This approach involves creating a dropdown list or text box for user input and linking it to filter criteria. Here's a general outline:

* Create a dropdown list or text box where users can enter their filter criteria.
* Set up data validation to restrict user input to valid options (optional).
* In another area, use the Advanced Filter functionality (under Data tab) to define your filtering criteria based on the user input cell.

This method offers more flexibility for complex filtering scenarios.

Additional Tips:

* You can combine these approaches for even more dynamic filtering.
* Consider using helper columns with formulas to manipulate data for filtering based on user input.
* Explore conditional formatting to visually highlight filtered data.

Remember, the specific implementation will depend on your data structure and desired filtering behavior. There are also VBA macro solutions for even more advanced dynamic filtering, but these methods provide powerful options without needing to write code.

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