> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://globosoftware.gitbook.io/globosoftware-docs/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://globosoftware.gitbook.io/globosoftware-docs/field-types/text-fields/textarea.md). # Textarea Add a multi-line box so visitors can write a full message, description, or set of instructions. ## 🔧 How to Set It In the form editor, click **Add element** > pick **Textarea**. The field is added and its settings open on the left.

See [Add and arrange elements](/globosoftware-docs/build-your-form/add-and-arrange-elements.md) for the other ways to add a field and how to reorder them. ## 🔧 Settings Only the settings specific to this field are listed here. **Label**, **Placeholder**, **Description**, **Required**, **Hide label**, **Column width**, **Conditional display** and the rest of the shared settings work the same on every field. ### **Limit characters** Turns on **Min characters** and **Max characters**. **Example:** A support form sets **Min characters** to `20`, so a one-word reply like "Help" gets rejected, encouraging a fuller description. A gift-note field sets **Max characters** to `150` to fit a printed card. > **📌 Note:** Leave **Max characters** blank instead of typing `0` — setting it to `0` is treated as a real limit and blocks all typing.

## 🔄 How It Works **What's saved:** The full text is stored with the submission, **line breaks included**. It shows up in **Submissions**, notification emails, exports, and connected integrations. > **📌 Note:** Long answers are shortened in the submissions list — open the submission to read the full text. ## ⚠️ Limits & Notes


Line breaks	Supported — the visitor can press Enter, and breaks are saved exactly as typed
Character limit	None by default — a visitor can type as much as they want, unless you turn on Limit characters
Column width	Usually reads best at 100% (full width). If placed beside another field, keep the shorter field on the left so labels line up

> **💡 Tip:** Set **Min characters** when you keep getting one-word answers to a question that needs context. Set **Max characters** when the reply has to fit somewhere limited, like a gift note. ## 🔁 Compare

Use	When
Textarea	A longer reply that needs line breaks
Text	A short, one-line answer, or you need a default value / icon

## Next steps * [Text](/globosoftware-docs/field-types/text-fields/text.md) — the single-line version for short answers. * [Insert form answers into an email](/globosoftware-docs/email-notifications/email-template-editor.md#dynamic-variables) — put the message straight into your notification. * [Open a submission](/globosoftware-docs/submissions/view-submissions.md#open-a-submission) — read the full answer.