In this video, we'll learn how to set up a data validation rule in Excel that only allows dates within the current year. We'll also add a custom input message to guide users. Let's get started!

Step 1: Select cell
Click the cell: First, click the cell or range to which you want to apply this rule.

Step 2: Open data validation
Go to the Data tab:
Find and click the Data tab on the ribbon at the top of Excel.
In the Data Tools group, locate and click Data Validation.

Step 3: Define validation criteria
Select date validation:
On the Settings tab, go to the Allow drop-down menu and select Date.
Next, set the data criteria to “Between.”
For the start date, enter the formula: =DATE(YEAR(TODAY()),1,1). This means January 1 of the current year.
For the end date, enter =DATE(YEAR(TODAY()),12,31), which means December 31 of the current year.

Step 4: Add a custom input message
Go to the Enter Message tab:
Click the Enter Message tab.
Select the Show input message when cell is selected check box.

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