I want to 'lock' cells so that users can edit the data in them but cannot copy and paste.

I know that I can 'unlock' the cells I like and then protect the sheet. This prevents people from typing data into the incorrect cells and mucking up my formulae.

I also know that I can set 'Allow users to edit range' so that I can protect everything in the worksheet (which will mean users can physically type data into the spreadsheet but cannot cut and paste data or drag it from another cell location that is locked).

My problem is that I have checkboxes and dropdowns set up that I need my users to be able to click on. These edit cell values. If I use the first method (unlock and protect) then users can cut and paste values which ruins the checkboxes and dropdowns. If I use the second method (edit range) then it disables the checkboxes and dropdowns from working. Anyone have any ideas on what I can do?

I have uploaded the spreadsheet for you to see what I mean. All the cells in yellow need to be editable. All the cells in orange are linked to a checkbox or a dropdown and I need to be able to click them to edit a cell value.

Any ideas?

thanks 4 sharing