How to Find Free CGI Web Forms Online

Many Web sites offer free forms for your Web page. Tell them what you want the form to say and they'll do the coding for you!

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Computers
• Web Design Software
• Personal Web Site

1. Type "free forms" into a search engine. Watch out for "freeform" entries!
2. Type "free CGI" into a search engine. CGI stands for Common Gateway Interface and is the standard used for more complicated form processing.
3. Check with your Internet Service Provider. Some ISPs offer standard forms, such as guest books or comment pages.
4. Make sure the form provider offers detailed instructions and support for its products.
5. Fill out the required fields the form provider asks for, including your correct e-mail address, and select OK. An e-mail with the form code will be sent to you.
6. Use a text editor - such as EditPad or Notepad - to open the Web page where you want the form to go. Copy the form code from the e-mail and paste it, as is, into the Web page.
7. Upload the form page to your Web site, following the instructions given by your hosting company. Test the form by filling it out and pressing Submit.

Tips & Warnings

• Some forms, such as a simple e-mail form, can be done in HTML. See "How to Create a Simple Form on a Web Page."
• In order to keep the forms free, most sites require users to view a banner or ad on the form page. Other providers require you to add a button linking to their site. Read all of the Terms of Use before using a form.
• Some providers will allow you to bypass the button, banner or other advertisement for a small fee.