Consist of tables and label/data fields

Guidelines

• Switch at most once between tables and label/data fields.
• Left-align labels, data fields, and columns of tables.
• Alphabetical listings should be arranged vertically, possibly in several parallel columns.
• If user enters data from a paper document, its layout should be mirrored by the screen layout.
   
• Allow for a space of at least two characters between columns.
• Insert a blank line after about every fifth line of data.
• Split long alphanumeric codes in groups of 2-4 characters.

 
• If a specific format of the user input is required, communicate this to the user:
  • Use underscores, periods etc. to indicate the exact or maximum input length.
  • Units (like $, ft., mph) and separators (like "-", "/") should be part of the form.
  • Use add-ons like "dd/mm/yy" or "(example: 12/_8/59)".
• Mark fields where entry is required (e.g., by "?", "." or color), or group such fields separately.  Hitting the return or tab key should bring the user to the next required entry field.
• Fill in data fields with default values or with the most recently entered value.
• Enter field values automatically if they can be inferred from other user input.
• Allow for abreviated entries which can be expanded by hitting a single key (automatic expansion is difficult for beginners). If the result is not unique, show available alternatives.
• Automatically entered values should however never have dangerous effects.

Example