What must be done after selecting the Data Validation menu item?

The correct next step after selecting the Data Validation menu item is to choose the criteria for validation. This is an essential part of the data validation process, as it defines the specific rules that will apply to the data being entered in the selected cells.

Setting up data validation involves specifying the type of data allowed in the cells (for example, a whole number, a decimal, a date, or a list). This helps ensure that the data entered meets certain standards or constraints. Once you determine the criteria for validation, you can then customize other features like error messages, but establishing the criteria is the foundational step in creating effective data validation rules.

Selecting options from the settings tab allows you to set these criteria. The other options, while relevant to the overall process of data validation, come after the criteria have been established.