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Inline fields in PandaDoc

Availability: All plans

Inline fields allow you to place fillable fields directly inside your text content. Unlike traditional fields that sit "on top" of the page, inline fields behave like text – they move naturally as your content changes, making them the perfect choice for dynamic documents.

What are inline fields?

Inline fields are fillable elements that live inside a text block. They are similar to variables in placement, but with one key difference: Fields allow you to collect information from your customers, whereas variables simply display pre-set data.

Unlike legacy fields (which are positioned on top of the page with fixed coordinates), inline fields:

  • Move with surrounding text as it changes

  • Stay aligned when variables change length

  • Are easier to add and edit in dynamic documents

Depending on your document layout, you may choose to use one or both types:

Inline fields

Absolute fields

Placement

Flows within the text

Fixed coordinates on the page

Best for

Dynamic documents (contracts, letters)

Static layouts (PDF overlays, forms)

Creation

Type "[" (left bracket)

Drag-and-drop from sidebar

Reflow

Moves automatically with text changes

Can become misaligned if text moves

Limitations

  • Currently you can use inline fields in text and table blocks only. You can insert inline fields directly into text blocks in documents, templates, and content library items.

  • All field types are supported as inline fields except radio buttons.

  • The following known issues currently apply:

    • Inline fields cannot be pasted into pricing table or quote blocks

    • Suggested mode: changes made via inline fields are not highlighted

    • Suggested mode: inline fields cannot be inserted or deleted

Note: Locking a content block does not lock inline fields inside it. Even when Restrict editing is enabled on a block, inline fields remain editable and movable. If you need to prevent recipients from interacting with a field, use field-level settings such as Required or assign the field to a specific recipient.

How to insert an inline field

There are three ways to insert inline fields:

Option 1: Drag-and-drop

You can now drag fields directly from the right side panel and drop them into your text or table blocks. Fields dropped into text or table blocks become inline by default, fitting naturally with your content.

When dropping onto other block types (such as images or PDF pages), fields remain absolute to ensure proper placement.

Tip: Need absolute positioning in a text block? Hold Shift while dragging to switch to absolute mode instantly.

Option 2: Type a bracket

  1. Click into a text or table block where you want the field to appear.

  2. Type a left bracket [ on your keyboard.

  3. Select the desired field type from the dropdown menu.

  4. Continue typing – the field will automatically shift to maintain its position relative to your words.

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