To use the Developer tab, first open the File tab along the top bar. Select “Options” (which may be at the bottom left-hand corner of your screen,) and select the Developer check box from the list on the left-hand side, then click OK. 


To Add a Form Control, place your mouse where you would like the form control to be. From the Developer tab, click the Design Mode button in the Controls group and select the control button you would like to add. When you are satisfied with your selection(s,) click the Design mode again.

 

To Finalize a Form, from the Developer tab, click the Restrict Editing button. When the Restrict Editing pane opens, check the Editing Restrictions checkbox and the Editing Restrictions list arrow. Then, select Filling in Forms. Next, click Yes, Start Enforcing Protection, then select OK. If you would like to add extra security, enter a password before clicking OK. 


Types of Forms Controls 

  • Rich Text – Allows users to enter text that can be formatted with different fonts and font styles. 

  • Plain Text – Allows users to enter text without formatting options. 

  • Picture – Allows users to add a picture (from their computer or online) to the form. 

  • Check Box – Places a form with a check box that the users can check or uncheck. 

  • Combo Box – Adds a list with a text box. Users can choose an option from a prompt or manually enter their own. 

  • Drop-Down Lists – Adds a list into the form. Users can manually configure the list with the options provided to fit their individual requirements. 

  • Date Picker – Allows the user to pick a date from a calendar. 

  • Repeating Sections – Allows users to repeat the form as many times as needed. 

  • (Legacy) – This control is only available in Word 97-2003 Documents.