Zoho Creator is a low-code platform that allows users to build custom web and mobile applications without advanced programming knowledge. It simplifies automation, data collection, and workflow management. Creating a custom form in Zoho Creator is a fundamental step in building any application. Forms act as the data entry interface and determine how information is collected, validated, and stored. Here’s a detailed guide:

Step-by-Step Guide to Create a Custom Form  

1. Access Your Application  

• Log in to your Zoho Creator account.

• Go to the Dashboard and open the application where you want to create a form.

2. Navigate to Forms  

• On the left-hand panel, click “Forms”.

• Click on “+ Create New” > Form.

3. Choose the Form Type  

• You can either:

• Create from Scratch – to build your form manually.

• Use Templates – pre-built forms for specific use-cases (HR, Sales, Finance, etc.).

• Import from Excel/CSV – auto-generates form fields based on uploaded data.

4. Add Fields Using Drag-and-Drop  

Zoho Creator provides a rich set of field types, grouped as:

• Basic Fields: Single Line, Multi Line, Number, Date, Email, Phone

• Choice Fields: Dropdown, Radio Button, Checkbox

• Advanced Fields: Lookup, Subform, Image, File Upload, Signature

• Special Fields: Formula, Auto Number, Decision Box, URL

Just drag and drop the required fields into the form layout.

5. Configure Field Properties  

• Click on each field to rename it, make it mandatory, or add field instructions.

• Set validations (e.g., number limits, text patterns).

• Enable default values, conditional visibility, or read-only modes.

6. Set Form Rules and Workflows (Optional)  

• Navigate to the Workflows tab to set up logic such as:

• Auto-calculations using formulas

• Conditional workflows using Deluge scripting

• Trigger actions on form submit/update/delete

7. Preview and Test the Form  

• Click on “Access this application” to preview how the form looks to users.

• Submit sample entries to ensure all validations and workflows function correctly.

8. Save and Deploy  

• Once you're satisfied, click “Done” or “Save”.

• The form is now live within your application.

Best Practices  

• Use field grouping for better UX (via sections or page breaks).

• Use lookup fields to connect data across forms (like Employee ID to Department).

• Enable form-level permissions to restrict access by role.

• Keep form design mobile-friendly by previewing on different devices.

Why This Matters  

A well-designed form ensures:

• Accurate and validated data collection

• Better user experience

• Smooth integration with reports, workflows, and analytics