How to Use Conditional Logic to Build Smarter Forms

Do you want to build smarter forms and boost conversions? Using conditional logic is the first step to simplifying your forms. Here's how.

We've already talked about the many benefits of switching to paperless forms in a previous post. But another key benefit of paperless forms is that you can use conditional logic to make better forms.

Nowadays there's no excuse for long forms. They’re time-consuming to fill out. Many won't bother with them at all. When no one fills your forms in, you get fewer results for you to analyze. Conditional logic can help you improve conversions with your WordPress forms.

What is conditional logic?

It's based on the "if this, then that" structure. This means that if a user answers a question in a certain way, it will trigger a related next step. The form can show or hide form fields depending on previous submissions.

For example, if a user selects "yes" to the question "do you have any children?" it can trigger a follow-up question like "how many children do you have?". If you answered "no", the second form field wouldn't show because it would be irrelevant to you.

Why use conditional logic in WordPress forms?

Conditional logic forms allow you to show only the fields that are relevant to the user. They don't have to scroll through lots of questions that aren't applicable.

There is no need for notes like "skip to section B if this question applies to you". All notes like this do is confuse people. Users might misread the instructions and find themselves filling in the wrong part of the form. They may become frustrated while trying to find the right parts and even abandon the form half way through.

Instead, with smart forms, users will be automatically directed to the section they need. There's no extra effort on their part.

Tips for using form logic to build smarter forms

Keep everything as simple as possible

If your form is overly complicated, people probably won't finish it. Shorter, simpler forms create a better user experience overall. It makes it more likely that the user will complete the form and you'll get the results you need.

Form conversion rates are really important if you want to collect and use a lot of data. For example, it allows you to get more accurate results in a customer satisfaction survey. With more people filling in the forms like these, you can get a wider understanding of how people view your business - not just what the minority thinks.

To keep things simple, avoid asking:

• Users for information you don’t really need
• For information you could easily learn on your own
• For anything users don’t know off the top of their heads

Create relevant trigger fields

One common problem we see with forms is that the conditional field doesn’t really relate to the trigger field. The next field should be a natural follow-on from the previous. This keeps everything clear and simple to follow.

For example, if a user is asked whether they have any pets, but the next question is about groceries, this is just going to confuse them. They'll wonder what you're getting at.

If people don’t understand why they’re asked certain questions, there’s a good chance they won’t answer them. Their time is valuable too!

If you find that users are not finishing your forms, take a look at whether your questions flow naturally from one to another. Making your forms clear and almost effortless to fill in will go a long way in boosting conversion rates. Ensure your forms can be filled out easily, with no snags.

How to use conditional logic with Formidable Forms

Create smart forms easily with Formidable's conditional logic for WordPress forms.

With Formidable Forms, you can show or hide fields, sections of fields or even skip through entire pages. Our multi-page forms let you create natural page breaks for a seamless experience with fewer interruptions. Want an even cleaner look that gently guides users to where they need to be? You may want to build a form conversation that turns a conditional logic form into conversions one question at a time!

Take a look below:

We hope this has cleared up any questions about using conditional logic, and how to get the most out of this feature. You can also create Choose your own adventure stories with it.

This feature is one of many at Formidable that makes form building easier to customize. We want your forms to be tailor-made to your needs and your users too.

Our drag-and-drop form builder makes it simple to build complex forms with conditional logic. If you're not already using Formidable, take a look at our features page for more information on how we can help.