Default values and supporting text make forms easier to complete and help guide users to provide the right information. Default values can pre-fill answers, while supporting text gives users extra context or clarification. This guide covers how to set both.
Instructions
Set a Default Value
- In the Form Builder, add or edit a field.
- Scroll to the Default Value section in the field settings.
- Enter the default answer you want to appear automatically.
The method varies slightly depending on the field type:
- Radio / Select fields: Set the default in the field settings or after saving the field by clicking the preferred option.
- Checkbox fields: Save the field first, then select the default choices directly in the form.
- Address fields: Save the field first, then enter defaults for individual components (e.g. country).
- Currency fields: Set the default currency in the field settings or after saving.
- All other fields: Enter the default value directly in the settings panel.
TIP: You can also use a Field ID as a default value to copy data from a previous answer.
Add Supporting Text
- In the same field settings panel, locate the Supporting Text area.
- Enter helpful guidance or a brief explanation of what the question is asking.
- Click Save.
NOTE: Supporting text appears directly below the question and helps users provide accurate responses.
Tips for Use
- Use default values when an answer is predictable or likely (e.g. default country = Australia).
- Use supporting text to clarify unfamiliar terms or explain why the information is needed.
- Default values can speed up completion, but should be used carefully to avoid incorrect data if unchanged.
Common Issues & Solutions
- Issue: I can’t set a default value for my checkbox or address field.
- Solution: Save the field first, then edit the default choices or values directly from the section view.
- Issue: The supporting text isn’t showing in the form.
- Solution: Check that the field has been saved and that the supporting text was entered in the correct field.