How to create Multi-step Form 📩

A Multi-step form breaks down a lengthy or complex form into smaller, more manageable steps, making it easier for users to fill out. Websites commonly use it to improve user experience and increase form completion rates. You can use templates or examples available online to create a Multi-step Form for your website. Some popular form-building platforms, such as Google Forms, Typeform, and Wufoo, offer tools and features for quickly building multistep forms.

What is Multi-step Form?

A Multi-step form is broken down into multiple sections or steps, requiring the user to complete each step before moving on to the next. This format helps to simplify complex or lengthy forms by breaking them into more manageable sections, making it easier for users to navigate and complete. Each step typically focuses on specific information or actions and may include progress indicators to show users how far along they are in the process. Multistep forms are commonly used in online applications, registrations, surveys, and other interactive forms to improve user experience and increase completion rates.

When to use Multi-step Form?

1. Improve user experience and increase completion rates by breaking down a long form into manageable steps.'

   Multi-step forms are essential for improving user experience and increasing completion rates by breaking down a long form into manageable steps. By dividing the information-gathering process into smaller, more easily digestible sections, users are more likely to stay engaged and complete the form. It not only boosts conversions but also enhances the overall user satisfaction on your website.

2. Improve data accuracy by prompting users to provide information in a structured manner.

   Multistep forms are essential for improving data accuracy by guiding users through a structured process of providing information. By breaking down the form into smaller, manageable sections, users are more likely to complete it accurately and thoroughly. This results in more reliable data collection and a better user experience overall.

3. Reduce overwhelming feeling for users filling out complex forms.

   Multistep Forms are essential for reducing the overwhelming feeling users often experience when filling out complex forms. By breaking down the form into smaller, more manageable steps, users are guided through the process in a clear and organized manner, resulting in a smoother and more user-friendly experience.

The benefits of using Multi-step Form on website

Multistep forms on websites have numerous benefits for both businesses and users. First, breaking a long, complex form into smaller, more manageable steps can improve user experience and reduce form abandonment rates. Users are less likely to feel overwhelmed and will be more willing to complete the entire form. Additionally, multistep forms allow for collecting more detailed and accurate user information by asking questions logically. It can help businesses better understand their customers and tailor their services accordingly. Lastly, multistep forms can also help boost conversion rates, as users are more likely to proceed to the next step after completing one, ultimately leading to higher form completion rates.

How to build Multi-step Form

Building a multistep form involves breaking a long form into smaller, more manageable sections. This helps improve the user experience and makes it easier for users to complete the form. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to build a multistep form:

1. Plan the form structure. Before you start building the form, take some time to plan out the structure of the form and decide how many steps you want to break it into. Consider the information you need to collect, and group related questions together.
2. Choose a form builder. Many online form builder tools can help you create multistep forms easily. Some popular options include Gravity Forms, WPForms, and Typeform. Choose a form builder that suits your requirements and has the functionality to create multistep forms.
3. Create the form. Use the form builder tool to create the initial form with all the necessary fields. Divide the form into sections based on the steps you planned earlier. Add a progress indicator to show users how far they can complete the form.
4. Add form navigation. Add buttons or clickable progress indicators to allow users to navigate between form steps. Include a 'Next' button on each step to move users to the next section and a 'Previous' button to return to the previous step.
5. Include validation. Ensure that each form field has appropriate validation to prevent users from submitting incorrect or incomplete information. This will help improve data accuracy and reduce errors in form submissions.
6. Customize the design. Customize the design of the form to match your website's branding and ensure a cohesive user experience. Use colors, fonts, and styling options to make the form visually appealing and easy to read.
7. Test the form. Before publishing the form, test each step to ensure that all form fields function correctly and that the navigation is smooth. Test the form on different devices and browsers to ensure compatibility.
8. Publish the form. Once satisfied with the form, publish it on your website or landing page. Monitor form submissions and user interactions to identify any areas for improvement.
9. Analyze data. Use the data collected from the form submissions to analyze user behavior and make informed decisions on optimizing the form for better performance. Make adjustments based on user feedback and analytics to improve user experience.

Example form fields in Multi-step Form

• Personal Information
  Name, Age, Gender, Contact Information

  <label for="name">Name</label>
  <input type="text" id="name" name="name" placeholder="Enter your Personal Information" required>

• Address
  Street Address, City, State, ZIP Code

  <label for="location">Location</label>
  <input type="text" id="location" name="location"  placeholder="Enter your Address" required>

• Education
  School/College Name, Degree, Major/Field of Study, Graduation Year

• Employment
  Company Name, Job Title, Employment History

• Financial Information
  Income Level, Budget Allocation, Savings/Investment Preferences

• Health Information
  Medical History, Allergies, Medications

• Preferences
  Product/Service Preferences, Color Choices, Size

• Feedback
  Suggestions, Comments, Ratings

  <label for="suggestions">Feedback</label>
  <textarea id="suggestions" name="suggestions" rows="4" placeholder="Please provide your suggestions here"></textarea>

• Survey Questions
  Multiple Choice, Open-ended, Likert Scale

• Subscription Preferences
  Subscription Preferences for Email Newsletter, Marketing Communications, Promotional Offers etc.

  <label for="newsleter">Subscription Preferences</label>
  <input type="checkbox" id="newsletter" name="newsletter">