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Field types

When you add a field (a box on your form), you first choose its type — that is, what kind of information goes in it. The type decides how the box looks and what people are allowed to type. Here are the everyday types, in plain words.

The everyday types​

  • Single line text — a short piece of text on one line, like a name or a reference.
  • Multi-line text — a longer piece of text over several lines, like notes or a description.
  • Whole number — a number with no decimals, like a count.
  • Decimal number — a number with decimals. You can choose how many decimal places (0 to 6).
  • Money — an amount of money. You can choose which currencies are allowed and how many decimal places to show.
  • Yes / no — a simple on/off tick box.
  • Date — a calendar date.
  • Time — a time of day.
  • Date & time — a date together with a time.
  • Choose from a list — a drop-down of options that you set up yourself. See List fields (choices).
  • File — lets people attach a file.
  • Automatic number — a number SHIPM8 fills in for you, counting up with each new entry (handy for reference numbers).

Linking to other records​

  • Link to a record / Link to several records — instead of typing a value, the box points at another record (for example a company). See Linked fields.

More technical types​

You may also see types such as Status, Status count, Progress bar, and Meta information. These show status or calculated information rather than something people type in, and they're usually set up by an administrator. You can ignore them unless someone asks you to use one.

note

The exact wording in the Field type drop-down can vary slightly between installations, but the kinds above are what you'll be choosing between.