9 Checkbox Functionalities

Checkboxes are versatile form fields.

They can be checked and unchecked, of course, which is their primary function. Optionally, they can contain an associated value. JavaScript can be used to manipulate them. They can even have certain radio button characteristics.

There are many ways checkboxes can be used.

Here, you will read about 9 of the ways checkboxes can be used — beyond the humdrum "is it checked or unchecked" test.

Checkbox Functionality Method 1

How To Use Images Instead Of Checkboxes

In this article, you'll learn how to use images instead of checkboxes to provide a custom look for your forms.

Example images:

Checkbox Functionality Method 2

Check a Checkbox to Reveal Content

When a checkbox is checked, certain web page content is revealed. When the checkbox is unchecked, the content disappears.

There may be multiple checkboxes, each with its own content to reveal.

Checkbox Functionality Method 3

Require TOS Checkbox Checked

Sometimes, a checkbox must be checked before progress can be made.

Perhaps an agreement to terms of service must be acquired before a service is delivered; a checkbox being used to indicate agreement.

(Find alternative methods at Checkbox Functionality Method 9.)

Checkbox Functionality Method 4

Limit Number of Checkbox Checks

When a site visitor is invited to make a maximum number of choices with checkboxes, there needs to be a way to limit the number of checks. You'll find a method here.

Checkbox Functionality Method 5

Merging Checkbox and Radio Button Functionality

A special-characteristics radio buttons is implemented in this article so when it it tapped a second time it is unchecked (as if it was a checkbox).

Checkbox Functionality Method 6

Checkbox Controls with JavaScript

Four types of checkbox controls are addressed in this article.

1. Limit the number of checkboxes that can be checked.
2. Total the value of checked checkboxes (with a "total" field).
3. Button to check or uncheck a group of checkboxes.
4. Providing "All" and "None" checkboxes so each of the other choices don't need to be tapped.

Checkbox Functionality Method 7

Label Change when Checkbox Checked

When a checkbox is checked or unchecked, its label can change accordingly. (A label is the text next to the checkbox so the user knows what the checkbox is for.)

Checkbox Functionality Method 8

Checkbox to Show/Hide Content

Show certain content when a checkbox is checked. Hide it again when the checkbox is unchecked.

Checkbox Functionality Method 9

2 Ways to Ensure a Checkbox Is Checked

Perhaps you have an "I agree to the terms of service" checkbox. The checkbox must be checked before the form is submitted.

Here are two different ways to ensure a checkbox is checked.

(This is similar to Checkbox Functionality Method 3, but discusses different ways to approach the solution.)

As you can see, there are various ways to use checkboxes. If you need a certain functionality for a checkbox that is not listed above, a way to do it probably exists. Use the contact form and ask me about it. If none yet exist, it most likely can be made.

(This article first appeared with an issue of the Possibilities newsletter.)

Will Bontrager