Forms style guide
Foilsithe
An t-eolas is déanaí
Teanga: Níl leagan Gaeilge den mhír seo ar fáil.
Foilsithe
An t-eolas is déanaí
Teanga: Níl leagan Gaeilge den mhír seo ar fáil.
First name
Middle name [only for forms where middle name is required]
Last name
Reasoning: ‘What is your name?’ and subsequent questions in question-marked format are unnecessary. Single word and short phrases are preferable to sentences in question-marked format, especially for people whose first language is not English.
Exceptions: On forms that could be filled out by a particular job type or by a third party, it is clearer to write “Teacher’s name” or “Parent/guardian’s name”. Proceed on a case-by-case basis. However, using sub-headers for form sections can remove the need to qualify the name type. See sub-headers below.
Gender options for dropdowns:
Man (including trans man)
Woman (including trans woman)
Non-binary or gender non-conforming
An example is:
“If ‘yes’, please state the previous dates of your career break.”
This should read:
“If yes, please state the previous dates of your career break.”
Online forms will be novel for many users so trust won’t be automatic. A clear and easily accessed GDPR policy covering reason for collection and use of data, storage method and duration must be in place.