How to Use Choice Field in Lookup Columns in SharePoint?

Problem: Could not create lookup columns on the Choice field in SharePoint list!

Solution:

Want to use a choice column as a lookup in SharePoint? Well, Not all column types are supported in the lookup column. Supported column types are:

  • Single line of text, 
  • Number,
  • Date and Time, 
  • Calculated (Single Line of text), 
  • External Data

In SharePoint, a Lookup column allows you to create a relationship between two lists or libraries by retrieving data from one list and displaying it in another. Suppose you have a “Projects” list and a “Departments” list. You can create a Lookup Choice column in the “Projects” list that retrieves data from the “Departments” list. This allows users to select the department associated with each project from a predefined list of departments, ensuring data consistency and establishing a relationship between the two lists.

Using choice fields as the data source for lookup columns in SharePoint is also possible! So, what’s the trick? Well, in the parent lookup list, create a new calculated column from the choice field in the list, and you can use that choice field in the lookup fields on any other list!

sharepoint lookup on choice field

You can now create a lookup on the choice field. This method also works for SharePoint Online Lists.

sharepoint online lookup on choice field

Now, when users create a new item in your target list, they will see a dropdown menu for the Lookup Choice column, displaying the choices retrieved from the source list. Users can select one or multiple values (depending on your configuration) from the predefined set of choices.

Salaudeen Rajack

Salaudeen Rajack - Information Technology Expert with Two-decades of hands-on experience, specializing in SharePoint, PowerShell, Microsoft 365, and related products. He has held various positions including SharePoint Architect, Administrator, Developer and consultant, has helped many organizations to implement and optimize SharePoint solutions. Known for his deep technical expertise, He's passionate about sharing the knowledge and insights to help others, through the real-world articles!

One thought on “How to Use Choice Field in Lookup Columns in SharePoint?

  • Hello, I tried to implement this solution however i’m getting a Syntax error. Assuming this is due to the column being a choice item

    Reply

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