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Text Fields

The Text Field is one of the most versatile field types in Buildaible, allowing users to store alphanumeric data like names, addresses, descriptions, or any text-based information. This guide explains how to create and customize a Text Field for your Buildaible app.

Creating a Text Field

There are two ways to create a new Text Field in Buildaible:

Way 1: Adding Fields via Table Settings

  1. Access the Table Settings:

    1. On the table, click the down arrow next to the table name, then select “Table Settings” from the dropdown menu.

  2. Navigate to the Fields Tab:

    1. In the Table Settings screen, click the “Fields” tab.
      Click the “+ New Field(s)” button in the top right.

  3. Choose Text as the field type, provide a Field Name, and customize the settings.

Way 2: Adding Fields via Manage Fields

  1. Open Field Management:

    1. On the table, click the “Manage Fields” button.

  2. Add a New Field:
    In the Manage Fields modal, click the “+ New Field” button.

  3. Choose Text as the field type, provide a Field Name, and customize the settings.

Both methods allow you to quickly and easily add a new Text Field, ensuring flexibility for different workflows.

Settings for Text Fields

When creating or editing a Text Field, you can customize the following options:

  • Show in Table Home: Toggle this option to display the field in the default Table Home view.

  • Field Required: Enable this to make the field mandatory when adding or editing records.

  • Unique Value: Use this to ensure that no two records in the table can have the same value for this field.

  • Default Value (Optional): Set a default value that will auto-fill when new records are created.

  • Max Characters (Optional): Specify the maximum number of characters allowed in the field to ensure consistent data entry.

  • Helper Text (Optional): Add a short explanation or instruction to guide users when filling out this field.

Additional Options

  1. Description: Click the + Description link at the bottom of the settings to add more detailed information about the field’s purpose. This is especially helpful for collaborators who need context about its use.

  2. Create Another Field: If you need to create multiple fields, use the blue + button in the lower-right corner to quickly add additional fields without leaving the screen.

Use Cases for Text Fields

  • Storing Customer Names or Addresses: Keep track of essential information in CRMs or contact management systems.

  • Short Descriptions or Notes: Use the Text Field for quick, concise explanations in project or task management apps.

  • Custom Identifiers: Ensure unique entries with the Unique Value option for codes, usernames, or IDs.

Editing a Text Field

To edit an existing Text Field:

  1. Navigate to the Fields tab in your table settings.

  2. Select the Text Field you want to modify and adjust the settings as needed.

Best Practices

  • Use Max Characters to limit the length of text input when consistency is crucial (e.g., limiting names to 50 characters).

  • Add Helper Text to ensure clarity for users filling out the field.

  • Leverage the Default Value setting to save time during data entry for commonly repeated inputs.

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