Here's how to sort data based on a custom list order in Excel:

1. Create your custom list:
- In a separate area of your worksheet, type the values you want to sort by in the order you desire (from top to bottom).

2. Select the custom list range:
- Highlight the cells containing your custom list.

3. Define the custom list (two methods):

Method A: Using the Sort Dialog
- Select the data you want to sort (including the column you want to sort by).
- Go to the "Data" tab on the ribbon.
- Click "Sort" in the "Data Tools" group.
- In the "Sort by" dropdown menu, choose the column containing cell values you want to sort based on your custom list.
- Under "Order," select "Custom List."
- In the "Custom Lists" window, click "Import."
- Excel will automatically detect the selected range as your custom list. Click "OK" to confirm.
- Click "OK" again in the main "Sort" window to apply the sorting based on your custom order.

Method B: Using the Advanced Options
- Follow steps 1 and 2 above to create and select your custom list.
- Go to "File" > "Options" (or "Excel" > "Preferences" on Mac).
- Click "Advanced" in the left pane.
- Scroll down to the "General" section and click "Edit Custom Lists..."
- Click "Import" and select the range containing your custom list.
- Click "OK" twice to close both windows.

4. Sort using the custom list:
- Select the data you want to sort (including the column containing the values you want to sort by).
- Follow steps 3A (using the Sort Dialog) or navigate back to the "Sort" function under the "Data" tab.
- In the "Sort by" dropdown menu, choose the column containing cell values you want to sort based on your custom list.
- Under "Order," select "Custom List" again.
- You should now see your custom list available in the "Custom Lists" window. Select it and click "OK" to sort your data based on the order you defined.

By following these steps, you can create and use custom lists to sort your data in a specific order that may not be alphabetical or numerical.