Drop down lists: a three part question

1. How do create cascading drop down lists? After you select one of the options from an initial d-d list you are presented with another drop.down list , then another, but without leaving the original cell.

E.g.
i) Boys' names
> *.......... A-F
*......................*> A
*......................*> B
*------------------*> C
**......................................*- Conrad
**......................................*- Charles
**.................................(blank) *
**..................................... *- Cal
**......................................*- Colin
*.....................*> D
*.....................*> E
*.....................*> F
*>........G-J
*>....... I-S
*>........T-Z


2. How do you sort the results alphabetically when they appear in drop down list even though they appear in a random order in the source list?
Cal
Charles
Colin
Conrad

3. If the source is a table with empty cells within the range, how to ignore blank cells?

See if the attached will get you started.

It is based on using range names and the INDIRECT() function

Each drop-down list has its own cell where the choice is placed.

Where are the choices going if the drop-down list remains in the same spot? This is unfortunately totally confusing.

Attach a sample workbook. Make sure there is just enough data to demonstrate your need. Include a BEFORE sheet and an AFTER sheet in the workbook if needed to show the process you're trying to complete or automate. Make sure your desired results are shown, mock them up manually if necessary.

Remember to desensitize the data.

Click on GO ADVANCED and use the paperclip icon to open the upload window.

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Ford's example is how cascading drop-downs work. As you can see, each drop-down has its own cell. If you are thinking of something else, an example of what you want is required.