What is checkbox?
A checkbox is a small square on a computer screen that you can click to turn something on or off. When it’s empty, the option is off; when a check mark appears inside, the option is on.
Let's break it down
- Square shape - looks like a tiny box.
- Two states - unchecked (empty) or checked (a tick or X).
- Click to change - clicking once toggles between the two states.
- Often part of a form - used to let users pick one or more options.
Why does it matter?
Checkboxes let users make simple choices quickly without typing. They’re a clear visual cue for “yes/no” or “select this” decisions, making digital forms and settings easy to understand.
Where is it used?
- Online surveys and quizzes
- Settings pages (e.g., “Enable notifications”)
- Installation wizards (e.g., “Create desktop shortcut”)
- To‑do lists and task managers
- Email clients (select multiple messages)
Good things about it
- Very easy to understand for beginners.
- Works on all devices and browsers.
- Allows multiple selections at once.
- Saves space compared to long text explanations.
- Immediate visual feedback when clicked.
Not-so-good things
- Can become confusing if many boxes are grouped without clear labels.
- Not ideal for exclusive choices (radio buttons are better for “pick one”).
- Small size may be hard to tap on mobile screens without proper design.
- May require extra validation in code to ensure required boxes are checked.