Picklist and multi-select field configuration
Key Takeaway
A restricted picklist stores only the values an admin has defined, even through the API. On an unrestricted picklist, users still can't add new values in the user interface, but the API, automation or other apps can add new values.
A picklist field lets users choose from a list of values that an admin defines, so data stays consistent instead of being typed in as free text. A single-select picklist takes one value, and a multi-select picklist lets users pick one or more values. Multi-select picklists are flexible, but they bring extra complications in imports, reports, formulas and automation, so admins need to understand those trade-offs.
Picklist types
There are three picklist types:
- Standard picklists come with the org, such as Lead Source and Opportunity Stage. You can't delete a standard picklist from the org.
- Custom single-select picklists are ones you create, and they allow one value. A custom single-select picklist can have up to 1,000 values.
- Custom multi-select picklists let users choose one or more values, and the chosen values show separated by semicolons. Users can still choose just one. A custom multi-select picklist can have up to 500 values. Users can select up to 100 of them at a time on a record.