correct syntax to populate fields dynamically?

Fields can be dynamically populated 3 different ways.

- Via query string (ex. domain.com/your/form?firstname=carl)

- Via hooks using PHP

- Via short code

Populating fields via a short code happens when you insert a form into a post or page using the short code. For example:

[gravityform id=xxx field_values='field_name=value']

I'm not sure what exactly you are trying to do. If you are placing short codes in the "Parameter" field in the field settings where you have checked to "Allow field to be populated dynamically" than this is incorrect.

The parameter field under "Allow field to be populated dynamically" is for you to name that individual field using a variable that you then can target via the query string, PHP via api hooks or when you insert a form with a short code.

If you tell me a little bit about what you are trying to do we can tell you the best method to use.

You can't use a short code within a short code or a function call within a short code.

What you will have to do is use PHP and an available hook to pre-populate the fields via your session data. This will be accomplished by placing a snippet of code in your themes function.php file that pre-populates the field.

- edit the field you want to pre-populate in the Form editor

- select the advanced tab

- check the "Allow field to be populated dynamically" checkbox

- give the dynamic field a Parameter Name (ex. city). This parameter name is what will be used in the querystring to pass the value.

- save your form

- edit your themes function.php file

- place this code snippet into your function.php file

add_filter("gform_field_value_city", "populate_city");
function populate_city(){
$city_value = "Test";
return $city_value;
}

Now the example above is based on populating a field with the parameter name "city" with the value of "Seattle". Notice everywhere "city" appears. This would be replaced with the parameter name for your field (ex. firstname, etc.). You can then set the value to whatever you want (session, etc.).

In your situation you would give each of the fields you want to populate a parameter name (ex. firstname, lastname, etc.) and then add the above filter for each of these fields to your themes function.php file... changing it each time to target the appropriate parameter name.

Hey Erwin, I responded in your other thread...