# Placeholders and default values - Checkoutline 1.x documentation

> A hint in an empty field, and the value a field starts with, for each type and in each checkout.

## Placeholder

A placeholder is a light grey hint shown in an empty field, such as "e.g. GB123456789" in a VAT number field. It isn't an answer: if the customer types nothing, the field stays empty.

- **Text and text area**: shown in the classic checkout. The Checkout block has no placeholders for text boxes, so there it doesn't show; put the hint in the label instead if both checkouts need it.
- **Dropdown**: the text of the empty first choice, in both checkouts, such as "Choose one". Without one, the classic checkout shows "Select an option".
- **Checkbox**: no placeholder.

## Default value

A default value is filled in when the checkout opens, and stays unless the customer changes it.

- **Text and text area**: any text, such as "Leave at the door".
- **Dropdown**: an option's value (the part before the colon), so the dropdown starts on that choice.
- **Checkbox**: tick **Ticked to start with** to have the box ticked. Use it with care for consent boxes, which should usually start unticked.

In the Checkout block, a default fills the field in for the checkout in progress. Orders that were placed without an answer stay without one; the default is never added to them later.

## Which to use

Use a placeholder when you want to show the expected shape of an answer without giving one. Use a default when most customers want the same answer and only some will change it, for example "Leave with a neighbour" as delivery instructions, or a dropdown that starts on the most common choice.

> [!NOTE]
> A required field with a default value is already filled in, so customers can place the order without touching it. If you need customers to make a choice, leave the default empty.

Source: https://extendiment.com/plugins/checkoutline/docs/1.x/placeholders-and-defaults