Column Type Reverts to Dropdown List

VBAGuru

I have a sheet, that no matter how many times I change a Column Type to Check Box, it reverts back to Dropdown list. What could be the source of the issue? I can't find any automations or Data Shuttle items that would even reference this sheet. This column is a formula that is referencing a check box on another sheet, so it creates an error every time it changes. Several other columns have similar formulas and remain as check boxes.

David011

This issue in Smartsheet—where a column keeps reverting from a Check Box type back to a Dropdown list, especially when it's formula-driven—can be caused by a few subtle factors. Here are some possibilities to investigate:

1. Formula Behavior and Column Type Conflicts

If the column contains a formula that references a checkbox column in another sheet, Smartsheet expects the data type to match. If the formula returns anything other than true/false, Smartsheet may automatically change the column type to accommodate the returned value (e.g., text or dropdown).

• Check the formula output: Ensure it only returns true or false. Even a stray space or text string like "TRUE" (in quotes) can cause issues.
• Compare with working columns: Look at the formulas in the other columns that are behaving correctly. Are they structured differently?

2. External Data Sources or Integrations

Even if you don’t see any Data Shuttle or automation rules, consider:

• Connected Sheets or Reports: Is this sheet being updated by a report or another sheet via cell linking or cross-sheet formulas?
• Third-party integrations: Tools like Zapier, Power Automate, or API scripts might be modifying the column type silently.

3. Sheet or Column Template Behavior

If the sheet was created from a template or is part of a Control Center blueprint, it might be inheriting settings that override manual changes.

• Check if the sheet is part of a portfolio or program managed by Control Center.
• Look for update requests or template syncs that might be resetting the column type.

Suggested Troubleshooting Steps

1. Temporarily remove the formula from the column and manually set it to Check Box. See if it stays.
2. Reapply the formula after confirming the column type sticks.
3. Duplicate the sheet and test changes there to isolate the issue.
4. Check sheet activity log (if available) to see what’s triggering the change.

I hope this helps!

Paul Newcome

You may need to reach out to Support for this one.