> ## Documentation Index > Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.elementum.io/llms.txt > Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further. # Configure Record Creation Layout > Create custom forms to start new workflows and create records manually The Form Builder provides a visual drag-and-drop interface for designing custom record creation forms. Build forms that allow users to manually start new workflows and create records tailored to your specific business processes. ## Overview The Form Builder allows you to design forms that users will use to manually create new records and initiate workflows. By dragging fields from your available field library into organized sections, you can create structured forms that capture exactly the information needed to start your business processes. The forms created here directly influence what a user sees when they manually create a record within an object or when they create a request within [Services](/workflows/services). The Form Builder automatically saves your progress as you work, so you never lose your form configuration. ## Getting Started ### Creating a New Form 1. Open the app, element, or task that needs a form. 2. Click Form Builder icon **Form Builder** under **User Interface** in the left navigation menu. 3. Add sections to organize your form structure 4. Drag fields from the field library to your sections 5. Configure field properties and validation rules 6. Preview your form to test the user experience ### Form Structure for Record Creation Create forms are organized into **sections** that contain **fields**. This hierarchical structure helps create logical groupings of related information needed to start a new workflow or create a record. ``` Create Form ├── Section 1 (e.g., "Basic Information") │ ├── Field 1 (e.g., "Title") │ ├── Field 2 (e.g., "Customer") │ └── Field 3 (e.g., "Owner") └── Section 2 (e.g., "Details") ├── Field 1 (e.g., "Description") └── Field 2 (e.g., "Priority") ``` ## Working with Sections ### Adding Sections 1. Drag the **Section** option from the **Add** menu onto your form. 2. Edit the section title as needed. 3. Drag fields into the section. ### Section Management * **Reorder sections**: Drag sections up or down using the grip handle * **Rename sections**: Click on the section title to edit To drag a section or field, click and drag on the grip handle. Do not drag from the section or field label. Deleting a section will also remove all fields within that section. This action cannot be undone. ## Field Configuration ### Available Field Types The Form Builder supports the fields configured in your Record Details Layout icon [Record Details Layout](/workflows/layouts). Available field types include: * **Text fields**: Single-line text input for titles, names, IDs * **Multi-line text**: Large text areas for descriptions and detailed information * **Dropdown menus**: Selection from predefined options like status, priority, category * **Date fields**: Date and time pickers for deadlines, start dates * **Number fields**: Numeric input with validation for quantities, budgets * **Status fields**: Predefined status options for workflow states * **User fields**: Team member selection for ownership and assignments * **Relationship fields**: Links to other records for dependencies ### Adding Fields to Sections 1. Locate the desired field in the **Fields** panel 2. Drag the field into your target section 3. The field automatically appears in the section 4. Configure the field properties by clicking the More icon **More** icon ### Field Properties Each field can be customized with the following properties: #### Layout Options * **Full Width**: Makes the field span the entire section width * **Grid Position**: Controls field positioning within the section #### Validation Rules * **Required Field**: Makes the field mandatory for record creation * **Helper Text**: Adds guidance text below the field ## Form Preview ### Live Preview Mode The Form Builder includes a live preview feature that allows you to: * See exactly how your create form will appear to users * Test field interactions and validation * Check mobile responsiveness * Validate form flow and user experience for record creation ### Testing Your Form 1. Click **Preview** to enter preview mode 2. Fill out fields to test validation rules 3. Check required field indicators 4. Verify section organization and flow 5. Test on different screen sizes Always test your create forms in preview mode before deployment to ensure users can efficiently create records and start workflows. ## Best Practices ### Form Design * **Logical grouping**: Organize related fields into sections that make sense for record creation * **Clear labeling**: Use descriptive section and field names that users understand * **Progressive disclosure**: Start with essential fields needed to create the record, add optional ones later * **Consistent spacing**: Maintain uniform field spacing and sizing ### Field Organization for Record Creation * **Required fields first**: Place mandatory fields at the top of sections * **Natural flow**: Order fields in a logical sequence that follows your business process * **Minimal sections**: Avoid creating too many small sections that fragment the creation process * **Related fields together**: Group dependent fields in the same section ### User Experience for Manual Record Creation * **Clear instructions**: Use helper text for complex fields that users might not understand * **Reasonable defaults**: Set sensible default values where appropriate to speed up record creation * **Mobile-friendly**: Ensure forms work well on mobile devices for field users * **Validation feedback**: Provide clear error messages to prevent incomplete records ## Advanced Features ### Integration with Workflows Forms built with the Form Builder can be integrated with: * **Approval processes**: Route newly created records through approval workflows * **Automation rules**: Trigger actions when records are created through the form * **Notifications**: Send alerts when new records are created * **Data pipelines**: Connect form data to external systems ## Troubleshooting ### Common Issues **Fields not appearing in sections** * Ensure the field is properly dragged into the section boundary * Check that the field type is compatible with the section configuration **Preview not updating** * Refresh the preview mode * Check for unsaved changes in the form builder **Validation rules not working** * Verify that required fields are properly marked * Test validation logic in preview mode * Check for conflicting validation rules For additional support with the Form Builder, visit our [Support Center](/support) or check the [FAQ section](/support/faq/faq-apps).