> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.loopit.co/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.loopit.co/settings/custom-fields/field-data-types.md).

# Field Data Types

Field Data Types determine **what kind of input users can provide** when filling out a form.\
Choosing the correct field type helps ensure **accurate data collection**, **better validation**, and an **improved experience**.

Below are the supported field types along with explanations and examples.

***

### Supported Field Types

#### 1. Text

**Purpose:**\
Used for short, single-line text input.

**Best for:**\
short answers, identifiers.

**Example:**

* Vendor ID

***

#### 2. Textarea

**Purpose:**\
Allows users to enter long, multi-line text.

**Best for:**\
Descriptions, comments, notes, or feedback.

**Example:**

* Additional Remarks

***

#### 3. Phone

**Purpose:**\
Captures phone numbers with proper formatting and validation.

**Best for:**\
Contact numbers.

**Example:**

* +91 99999 4444

***

#### 4. Number

**Purpose:**\
Accepts only numeric and decimal values.

**Best for:**\
Quantities, prices, counts, or numeric identifiers.

**Example:**

* Quantity: 10
* Amount: 24.50

***

#### 5. Date

**Purpose:**\
Allows users to select a calendar date.

**Best for:**\
due dates, event dates.

**Example:**

* 25 Dec 2026

***

#### 6. Date & Time

**Purpose:**\
Allows users to select both date and time.

**Best for:**\
Appointments, scheduling, booking times.

**Example:**

* 25 Dec 2026, 10:30 AM

***

#### 7. Checkbox

**Purpose:**\
Allows users to select **yes/no** or **true/false** values.

**Best for:**\
Agreements, confirmations, enabling options.

**Example:**

* ☑ I agree to the Terms & Conditions

***

#### 8. Dropdown

**Purpose:**\
Allows users to select **one option** from a predefined list.

**Best for:**\
Limited choices where only one value is allowed.

**Example Options:**

* Petrol
* Diesel
* Electric

***

#### 9. Multi-Select

**Purpose:**\
Allows users to select **multiple options** from a predefined list.

**Best for:**\
Tags, preferences, features, or categories.

**Example Options:**

* Airbags
* ABS
* Sunroof

***

### How to Choose the Right Field Type

| Requirement           | Recommended Field Type |
| --------------------- | ---------------------- |
| Short text            | Text                   |
| Long description      | Textarea               |
| Phone number          | Phone                  |
| Numeric/Decimal value | Number                 |
| Date only             | Date                   |
| Date with time        | Date & Time            |
| Yes / No choice       | Checkbox               |
| Single selection      | Dropdown               |
| Multiple selections   | Multi-Select           |

***

### Summary

Selecting the correct **Field Data Type** ensures:

* Cleaner and more structured data
* Better validation
* Improved form usability

Use **Dropdown** and **Multi-Select** when predefined options are available, and **Text / Textarea** when user flexibility is required.


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