itsual Form Design
Overview
Every field in a form has a cost. Good form design collects only what is needed, in a logical order, with clear instructions and error prevention.
When to Use
- Intake and request forms
- Applications and registrations
- Surveys and feedback forms
- PDF or Word-based fillable forms
- Internal operational forms
Principles
- Ask only for information you will use
- Group related fields and use a logical sequence
- Use clear labels and short help text
- Prefer selection controls over free text when options are known
- Make required vs optional obvious
- Design for error prevention and recovery
- Consider mobile and accessibility
- Multi-step forms should show progress
Practical Tips
- One question per line when clarity matters
- Avoid placeholder-only labels
- Use sensible defaults
- Validate inline when possible
- Test with real users or colleagues before wide release
Verification
- Users can complete the form without clarification questions
- Required information is actually necessary
- Error states are clear and recoverable