Written by Allen Wyatt (last updated May 23, 2025)
This tip applies to Excel 2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, and 2021
Adam knows how to disable drag-and-drop editing within Excel, using a macro, by setting the CellDragandDrop property for the Application object. He rightfully notes that this doesn't stop people from dragging information from other programs (such as Word or Outlook) and dropping that information into a worksheet. He wonders if there is a way to disable dragging and dropping into Excel regardless of the source.
The closest solution we've been able to find is a set of macros developed by Ken Puls and noted at this page:
http://www.vbaexpress.com/kb/getarticle.php?kb_id=373
The macros disable certain functions and shortcut keys, and thereby disallow cutting, copying, and pasting. Theoretically it also disables dragging and dropping, but only extensive testing with various programs will tell if it will work in Adam's situation.
ExcelTips is your source for cost-effective Microsoft Excel training. This tip (11520) applies to Microsoft Excel 2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, and 2021. You can find a version of this tip for the older menu interface of Excel here: Disabling Dragging and Dropping.
Dive Deep into Macros! Make Excel do things you thought were impossible, discover techniques you won't find anywhere else, and create powerful automated reports. Bill Jelen and Tracy Syrstad help you instantly visualize information to make it actionable. You’ll find step-by-step instructions, real-world case studies, and 50 workbooks packed with examples and solutions. Check out Microsoft Excel 2019 VBA and Macros today!
When you are copying huge amounts of information, Excel may seem to bog down and it is difficult to know when it is safe ...
Discover MoreIf you copy a cell that contains a reference to external data, do you get an error? It could be due to the complexity of ...
Discover MoreWhen you want to remove information from a worksheet, you can either clear cells or delete cells. This tip examines the ...
Discover MoreFREE SERVICE: Get tips like this every week in ExcelTips, a free productivity newsletter. Enter your address and click "Subscribe."
There are currently no comments for this tip. (Be the first to leave your comment—just use the simple form above!)
Got a version of Excel that uses the ribbon interface (Excel 2007 or later)? This site is for you! If you use an earlier version of Excel, visit our ExcelTips site focusing on the menu interface.
FREE SERVICE: Get tips like this every week in ExcelTips, a free productivity newsletter. Enter your address and click "Subscribe."
Copyright © 2025 Sharon Parq Associates, Inc.
Comments