Tables are one of three repeating screen types that allow users the flexibility to enter as many rows of data that are needed for each unique submission.

Tables in the Builder

Tables allow you to repeat a set of fields as many times as you need to — just like you adding another line item to a spreadsheet. You can then use the PDF Designer to customize how your table looks on your PDF reports.

If the above table was on a sheet of paper, you would be limited to the static set of rows that are printed on the sheet. Using GoCanvas digital forms removes that limitation and allows your users to add as many Item #s and their associated details as is needed — perhaps your entire inventory.

Adding Tables

There are several methods for adding Screens to your form.

From the Workspace

In the center workspace, below the current last screen of the form, click Add Table.

From an Existing Screen

Click the ellipsis icon in the upper right corner of the screen to expand the menu and select Convert to Table.

If your screen does not already have a field, the modal that pops up will require you to create a Key Field. If your screen already has a field, the modal will give you an option to create a new Key Field or select an existing field to be the Key Field.

Create a Key Field Select a Key Field

Between Screens

In the center workspace, slightly to the right between two existing screens, hover your cursor and a + sign will appear. Click Add Table and a new screen will appear below the dotted line. Please note, unless you collapse both the left and right panels, these buttons will be slightly cut off.

Once your Table is created using one of the methods detailed above, don't forget to give the Table a descriptive Screen Name, label the Key Field, and start adding fields. 

Unlike simple Screens, the first step to a well built Table is choosing the defining characteristic of each line item that is easiest for your team to recall while in the field. For example, in a timesheet, the defining characteristic is the employee's name and not the number of hours worked, as multiple employees may have worked the same number of hours. Or, when entering inventory information, the description or item name is probably more memorable than the item or serial number. Keep this tip in mind when determining the order of your fields.

Additional Table Actions

If you later decide you don't need a Table, click the ellipsis icon in the upper right corner of the screen and select Delete Table. This is also the menu where the Table can be Duplicated or Converted to a Screen.

Table Functionality

After adding a table, the column title Untitled col 1 appears with a lock icon on the left hand side. The lock icon indicates this column is the Key Field within the table, which cannot be moved or deleted. Key Fields can be the following field types: Barcode, Date, Number, Dropdown, Single line Text, and Time.

Primary Differences Between Screens and Tables

• Tables have a column tag attached to the column/field.
• A table appears as a grid in the Preview panel.
• Users can add as many rows as they need when completing a submission.