How to Create a Fillable Form in Google Docs
Namrata Gogoi is an author covering Buying Guides and device-related tips and tricks. She loves learning and writing about gadgets and accessories that are functional, innovative, and have a positive impact on people’s lives. Since 2016, she has covered smartphones, computer accessories, household electric appliances, and any product that helps bring convenience to one’s life. Previously, she worked as an IT Analyst at TCS but found her calling at Guiding Tech.
Afam has been a content writer with Guiding Tech Media since August 2023. However, his experience in tech writing dates back to 2018, when he worked as a freelance writer for Make Tech Easier. Over the years, he has grown a reputation for publishing quality guides, reviews, tips, and explainer articles. His work is featured on top websites, including Technical Ustad, Windows Report, and Next of Windows. He has training as a Microsoft Certified Professional and has covered more Microsoft-related guides on these platforms.
Method 1: Using Tables and Other Form Elements
One of the best methods to create a form in Google Docs is to use Tables. They make your fields appear uniform and remove the hassle of adding space. You can add interactive form fields like dropdowns, text boxes, checkboxes, and text areas. While this will not create the most robust form, it serves for simple forms and surveys.
Step 1:Open a new document on Docs > click onInsert> selectTableand select the number of rows and columns.
Step 2:Add the first text field, such asFirst NameandLast Name. Leave the cell blank for those you want the user’s input.
Step 3:To create checkboxes, select thedesired text, click on thelittle arrow iconnext to the Bullet list options, and chooseChecklist.
So, there you have it—a basic form’s skeleton. The good thing about this method is that you can add two to three tables per the design you have in mind. For instance, if you want to add a large text area option, add a single-cell table and enlarge it.
Optionally, you may remove table outlines as shown below.
Step 1:Right-click on your table and selectTable Properties.
Step 2:Click onColorand select0 ptunder Table border.
This will make the borders invisible, and you’ll have a better-looking form on your hand.
Alternatively, you can highlight the cells with a light color or add dashes to make them more interactive. We created the following form entirely using Google Docs elements.
It’s worth mentioning that forms created from scratch in Google Docs can be printed and distributed. In the absence of field validations, using them for online submissions will involve a lot of manual validations.
Method 2: Converting a PDF File to a Fillable Form
As mentioned above, Docs lets you convert PDF files to Google Docs. So, if you have a sample form in PDF format, convert it to Docs and then modify it.
Step 1:OpenGoogle Drive, click theNewbutton at the top-left corner, and selectFile Upload.
Step 2:Once the upload is complete, right-click on the file and selectOpen with>Google Docs. This will convert the document into editable text. Of course, it won’t convert into a fillable form right away, but you will have a rough structure.
Step 3:Add the necessary formatting to complete the circle.
Note that if your sample form has text boxes, they will be removed, leaving you with only the text to edit. This is a major limitation. But that’s the only way to upload a form to Google Docs.
Was this helpful?
Last updated on 30 April, 2024
Leave a ReplyCancel reply
Your email address will not be published.Required fields are marked*
Name*
Email*
Comment*
Δ
Read Next
The article above may contain affiliate links which help support Guiding Tech. The content remains unbiased and authentic and will never affect our editorial integrity.
More in Internet and Social
3 Ways to Fix ”This Reel Is No Longer Available” Error on Instagram
How To Use Nested Lists in Google Keep: A Detailed Guide
JOIN THE NEWSLETTER
Get Guiding Tech articles delivered to your inbox.
© 2024 Guiding Tech Media. All Rights Reserved.
