Data Validation Shortcut in Excel on Mac (Alt + D L)

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Quick Answer

The Excel 2003 data validation shortcut is Alt + D L. It opens the Data Validation dialog. On a Mac, install Accelerator Keys, select the cells, then press Option, then D, then L. Set the rule, such as a drop-down list, then click OK.

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If you are looking for the data validation shortcut in Excel on Mac, Alt + D L is the one many Windows users know from Excel 2003. Windows Excel still accepts it. With Accelerator Keys, it works on your Mac too.

What Does Alt + D L Do?

Alt + D + L is the legacy shortcut for Data > Validation. It opens the Data Validation dialog. You set a rule for what users can type in the selected cells, such as a list, whole numbers, or dates. You can also add an input message and an error alert.

Legacy vs. Modern Shortcut Comparison

Shortcut Era Menu Path
Alt + D + L Legacy (Excel 2003) Data > Validation
Alt + A + V + V Modern (Ribbon) Data > Data Validation > Data Validation

Both shortcuts work with Accelerator Keys.

How It Works on Mac

On your Mac, Accelerator Keys runs Data > Validation in the Excel menu bar. It works on any ribbon tab and at any window width.

Step-by-Step: How to do Alt + D L on Mac Excel

  1. Install the Fix: Download Accelerator Keys (14-day free trial, no credit card required).
  2. Select the cells: Select the cells that get the rule.
  3. Press Option: Press the Option key. It works like Alt on Windows.
  4. Press the letters one at a time: Press D, then L.
  5. Result: The Data Validation dialog opens. Set the rule and click OK.

Frequently asked questions

Does Alt + D L work natively on Mac Excel?

No. Excel for Mac’s own KeyTips do not support the legacy Alt + E, Alt + I, Alt + O, and Alt + D menu keys. Accelerator Keys adds them. Press Option, then D, then L.

How do I make a drop-down list with Alt + D L?

Select the cells, then press Option, then D, then L. In Allow, choose List. In Source, type the items with commas between them, or select a range. Click OK.

What is the modern equivalent of Alt + D L?

The modern ribbon shortcut is Alt + A + V + V (Data > Data Validation > Data Validation). Both work on Mac with Accelerator Keys.

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