> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.surveyowl.co/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Create your first form

> Build a no-code Hosted form, test the respondent experience, and publish it.

A Hosted form is built in the visual editor and hosted for you. It is the right choice when you want a public form link or a complete form to embed without creating the interface yourself.

## 1. Create a blank form

<Steps>
  <Step title="Open your workspace">
    Sign in and open the workspace where the form should live.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Select New form">
    Choose **Hosted form**, then give it a clear internal name. Hosted form is selected by default.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Add the first question">
    Select the **+** button or type `/` in the editor. Choose **Short Text** for a name, **Email** for an email address, or another block that matches the answer you need.
  </Step>
</Steps>

## 2. Keep the first version small

Start with only the information you will use. A short contact form might ask for a name, email address, and message. You can always improve it after seeing real responses.

Do not make every question required. A required question blocks submission until it is answered, so use it only when you cannot act without that answer.

## 3. Add an ending

Add an **End Screen** so people know their response was received. Explain what will happen next—for example, “We will reply within two working days.” You can also add a button, link, or social links.

## 4. Preview the form

Select **Preview** and complete the form as if you were a respondent. Check it on a phone-sized screen too. Pay attention to:

* the order and wording of questions;
* required questions and validation messages;
* page breaks and navigation;
* the final confirmation screen.

## 5. Publish and share

Select **Publish**. Then open the **Share** tab to copy the public link. Anyone with the link can fill out the form while it is open.

Your edits are saved as a draft. Publish again when you want the newest version to become live.

## What to do next

* [Use the editor](/building-forms/using-the-editor)
* [Customize the design](/building-forms/customize-your-form)
* [Embed the form on your website](/sharing/embed-a-form)


This documentation is built and hosted on [Mintlify](https://mintlify.com), a developer documentation platform.