In this guide, you’ll learn how to create a dynamic search box that filters data based on your input, using Excel’s built-in features and Developer tools.

Excel’s autocomplete feature works with data input. You can’t use it to search an existing column of values–you use the feature to enter a new value.

Excel Online won’t support the VBA procedure in this article. Download the demonstration .xlsm, .xls, and .cls files to easily access the code. What is InputBox?

In the window that opens, go to the Input message tab. Check the box that says “Show input message when cell is selected.” Add a title (32 characters). Type your input message (255 characters).