Excel - COLUMN Function Problem - Expert Solution

Question description:
This user has given permission to use the problem statement for this blog.

I have data validation linking two columns - when you enter a name (only specific listed names allowed) then tab to the next column it is supposed to automatically enter the matching data (doctor name - doctor speciality are the validation lists). Recently it became corrupted for some unknown reason and no longer links, so now you can free type in the speciality column. Any hints?
Solved by O. E. in 20 mins
This is the chat thread from the real Excelchat help session. It contains no private user information.
Excelchat Expert 10/04/2018 - 09:45
Dear Student. I hope you're doing great today! :-)
User 10/04/2018 - 09:45
Very kind. this is driving me slightly nuts though.
Excelchat Expert 10/04/2018 - 09:45
Do you have data that we can work on?
User 10/04/2018 - 09:45
Unfortunately no, it's confidential stuff
Excelchat Expert 10/04/2018 - 09:46
Oh. I Understand. No problem. :-)
Excelchat Expert 10/04/2018 - 09:46
Can you further describe the problem?
User 10/04/2018 - 09:47
Okay. We have two columns of data / validation lists. They are set up via the Name Manager and usually when you type in a name in the first column (restricted to specific list) it automatically enters the second column information that matches that name.
User 10/04/2018 - 09:47
it stopped working because some clown messed with it, added a name directly to the list or something (no one is confessing)
Excelchat Expert 10/04/2018 - 09:48
Ok, You have 2 columns. Let say A and B.
Excelchat Expert 10/04/2018 - 09:49
Column A, is that column the data entry part.
User 10/04/2018 - 09:50
the two fixed and immutable lists are Doctor names, linked to their speciality. On worksheets when we enter any of those doctors, it should automatically bring their speciality when we tab to the next column
Excelchat Expert 10/04/2018 - 09:50
I mean, you enter the name and in column be supposed to be appear the data that it matches the columnA. Is that right?
User 10/04/2018 - 09:50
sounds right
Excelchat Expert 10/04/2018 - 09:51
All right.
Excelchat Expert 10/04/2018 - 09:51
Now what's the result the column B is giving?
Excelchat Expert 10/04/2018 - 09:51
for example.
Excelchat Expert 10/04/2018 - 09:51
Does it give you ERROR result?
Excelchat Expert 10/04/2018 - 09:51
or blank?
User 10/04/2018 - 09:52
Nothing at all. You enter a doctor name in the first column and tab...nothing happens. You have to manually type and it lets you type ANYTHING, which is also wrong
Excelchat Expert 10/04/2018 - 09:52
ok. I want you to check the cell where the data should appear automatically
User 10/04/2018 - 09:53
comes up with nothing in the boxes (i.e. allow any value, no option to uncheck the blank box etc)
User 10/04/2018 - 09:54
in the data validation boxes i mean
User 10/04/2018 - 09:55
Oh no I have to leave, my shift handover starts now. Ten minutes to go and I am so sorry! If I come back on next shift tomorrow how does one pay for the next session?
Excelchat Expert 10/04/2018 - 09:55
Oh. I hope to hear from you again.
Excelchat Expert 10/04/2018 - 09:55
Please do visit us again. Alrighty... :-)
Excelchat Expert 10/04/2018 - 09:55
For your spreadsheet problems and inquiries always do visit us at https://www.excelchat.co/ We will be more than willing to help you. Have a beautiful day and God bless you!
User 10/04/2018 - 09:56
REALLY wanted to know the answer! Thanks anyway
Excelchat Expert 10/04/2018 - 09:56
My pleasure. Thank you also. God bless you.
User 10/04/2018 - 09:56
thank you :)

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