BETA This playbook is in BETA, we think it’s good enough to be useful right now, but there are gaps that need filling – your feedback will help us to improve it.

When to use this component

Use the checkboxes component when you need to help users

  • select multiple options from a list
  • toggle a single option on or off

When not to use this component

Do not use the checkbox input if users can only choose one option from a selection. In this case, use the radio’s input.

How it works

How would you like to be contacted?

Things to remember

Order checkbox options alphabetically by default. In some cases, it can be helpful to order them from most-to-least common options, for example ‘Where do you live’ could be ordered by population size. But, you should be cautious about doing this as it can suggest bias in your service. If in doubt, order alphabetically.

Unlike with radios, users can select multiple options from a list of checkboxes. Do not assume that users will know how many options they can select based on the visual difference between radios and checkboxes alone. If needed, add a hint explaining this, for example, ‘Select all that apply’.

Last reviewed: October 2, 2023 by Kailani

Next review due: April 2, 2024

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