Databound drop down list - initial value

Question

How do I set the initial value of a databound drop down list in ASP.NET?

For instance, I want the values, but the first value to display should be -- Select One ---

Answer 1

I think what you want to do is this:

Make sure the 'AppendDataBoundItems' is set to true or else you will clear the '--Select One--' list item when you bind your data.

If you have the 'AutoPostBack' property of the drop down list set to true you will have to also set the 'CausesValidation' property to true then use a 'RequiredFieldValidator' to make sure the '--Select One--' option doesn't cause a postback.