How do I set a dropdown list column to have a default initial value.

WDellapenna

I am have a smartsheet which I use as a tracking log for RFI questions on projects. Each row is a separate question/RFI. One column is the status, which is formatted as a drop down list with a handful of options. I'd like to set that column to default to one of the options on the list.

Is there a way to do this?

In the picture below, I'd like the first column "Status" to default to "Pending" when I start typing on any line in that row.

Andrée Starå

https://community.smartsheet.com/discussion/138272/how-do-i-set-a-dropdown-list-column-to-have-a-default-initial-value

Hi,

I hope you're well and safe!

You can add a Workflow that could change/update the status automatically.

Would that work/help?

I hope that helps!

Be safe, and have a fantastic day!

Best,

Andrée Starå | Workflow Consultant / CEO @ WORK BOLD

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Paul Newcome

It wouldn't be as soon as you start typing, but you can set up a change cell automation to update the status column to pending. You would use a trigger of when rows are added and a condition of the status field being blank (so it doesn't overwrite anything already input).

If new rows are added via form, you can set a default value directly in the form and not worry about the automation.

WDellapenna

Thanks. The Cell Automation seems to take a few minutes to trigger, but it's doing what I want now. Thanks.

Andrée Starå

https://community.smartsheet.com/discussion/comment/480287#Comment_480287

Excellent!

Happy to help!

✅ Remember! Did my comment(s) help/answer your question or solve your problem? Please support the Community and me by marking it - Insightful 💡- Vote Up ⬆️ - Awesome ❤️ - or/and as the accepted answer. It will make it easier for others to find a solution or help to answer! I appreciate it, thanks!