{{form_container.response.prize_details}}
{{form_container.response.prize_category}}
https://yourcampaignurl.com?parameter1=value1¶meter2=value2
https://yourcampaignurl.com?email=example@example.com&country=USA
https://yourcampaignurl.com?name=John|Doe
curl -i -H "Authorization: Token token=$API_KEY" \
"https://entries.shortstack.com/entries?per_page=25"
```
Sample response:
```
{
"data": [
{
"id": 12345,
"campaign_id": 678,
"list_id": 91011
}
]
}
```
### Paging through results
1. Run your request with -i so headers are shown: curl -i -H "Authorization: Token token=$API_KEY" \ "https://entries.shortstack.com/entries?sort=received&direction=descending&per_page=50"
2. Look in the output for a header named Link:. Copy the web address inside <> that ends with rel="next".
3. Call that address to load the next page: curl -i -H "Authorization: Token token=$API_KEY" \ "https://entries.shortstack.com/entries?sort=received&direction=descending&per_page=50&last_id=45678&last_sort=2024-04-10T16:45:00Z"
4. Repeat until the header no longer shows rel="next".
5. To jump back to the beginning with the same filters, copy the address that ends with rel="first" and call it: curl -i -H "Authorization: Token token=$API_KEY" \ "https://entries.shortstack.com/entries?sort=received&direction=descending&per_page=50"
### Paging & sorting parameters
- per_page – how many entries to return (default 100, max 5000).
- sort – the field to order results by (defaults to id).
- direction – ascending or descending order.
- last_id – the final id from the previous page when you follow a next link.
- last_sort – the last value of your sort field when sorting by something other than id.
### Filtering parameters
- campaign – one or more campaign IDs, passed as campaign=1,2.
- list – one or more list IDs.
- feed – one or more social media feed IDs.
- list_tag – one or more tag names that map to list IDs.
- category – one or more category names.
- city – one or more city names.
- country – one or more country codes or names.
- province – one or more state or province names.
- postal_code – one or more postal or ZIP codes (dashes are ignored).
- label – one or more label values.
- email – exact email address to match.
- received – date range in the form start,end (ISO8601).
- age – age range in the form min,max.
- id – ID range in the form min,max.
- votes1, votes2, votes3 – vote count ranges in the form min,max.
- image_width, image_height – image dimension ranges in the form min,max.
- recaptcha_score – decimal score range in the form min,max.
- approved – true, false, 1, or 0 to filter by approval status.
- exclude_feeds – set to true/1 to include only entries without a feed unless feed is also sent.
- image – true/false to require an image.
- test – true/false to find test entries.
- video – true/false to require a video.
- profile – export profile ID that controls which fields appear.
- es_boolean_X – filters on a custom boolean field defined in your profile (X is the number shown in the profile).
- es_date_X – filters on a custom date range for profile field X.
- es_number_X – filters on a custom numeric range for profile field X.
- es_list_X – filters on a custom list field for profile field X; pass multiple values as a list.
### Filter examples by parameter type
- Text match: add country=US to find entries from the United States.
- Boolean switch: add approved=true to find only approved entries (true, false, 1, or 0 are accepted).
- List of IDs: add list=12,34 to pull entries from those two lists.
- Date range: add received=2024-01-01,2024-01-31 for entries received in January 2024 (leave a side blank for open-ended ranges, e.g., received=,2024-01-31).
- Number range: add age=18, to find ages 18 and higher, or votes1=10,20 for a specific span.
- Search term: add search=winner to look across indexed text fields; emails like name@example.com are matched exactly.
- Profile output: add profile=42 if you have an export profile that maps fields for download.
- Custom profile field: add es_list_2=VIP,Priority to filter on a mapped list-type custom field.
Combine filters by joining them with &, for example:
```
curl -i -H "Authorization: Token token=$API_KEY" \
"https://entries.shortstack.com/entries?per_page=50&country=US&approved=true&received=2024-01-01,2024-03-31"
```
### Get a single entry
Provide the entry ID, and optionally a profile to shape the response:
```
curl -i -H "Authorization: Token token=$API_KEY" \
"https://entries.shortstack.com/entries/12345?profile=42"
```
If the entry belongs to another account or does not exist you will receive a 404 response.
### Other options for form integrations
ShortStack also supports form integrations to enhance your campaign functionality. These include:
- MailChimp
- Google Maps
- Webhooks
Learn more about [Form Integrations](https://www.shortstack.com/help/form-integrations/).
### Related resources
[Securing Webhook Form Integrations (Help Doc)](https://www.shortstack.com/help/securing-webhook-form-integrations/)
[Adding Google Maps Address Lookup to a Form (Help Doc)](https://www.shortstack.com/help/adding-google-maps-address-lookup-to-a-form/)
[Form Integrations (Help Doc)](https://www.shortstack.com/help/form-integrations/)
---
## Entries data
URL: https://www.shortstack.com/help/entries-data/
Category: Analytics & data
Plan required: Max plan
Last reviewed: 2026-02-24
The Entries tab of the Analytics Manager reports four metrics for the campaign and date range you have filtered to, beginning with the total number of entries collected. Reach it by clicking Manage → Analytics, selecting your campaign and timeframe, then opening the Entries tab.
### Getting there
To access the Entries data, you will need to start in the Analytics Manager.
1. From the Home Page, click the Manage dropdown at the top and select Analytics.
2. Use the Filtering section to select the specific campaign you wish to view.
3. Adjust the date range to display data for your desired timeframe.
4. Click on the Entries tab.
### Data Boxes
- Entries: The total number of entries collected, based on the selected filters.
- Unique Entries: The number of unique entries. If your campaign allows multiple entries, this number will be lower than the total entries. Otherwise, it will match the total entries.
> Note: To ensure accurate data collection, enable the appropriate fingerprinting setting in the Campaign Settings. [Learn more here.](https://www.shortstack.com/help/campaign-settings/#6-analytics)
- Conversion Rate: The conversion rate is calculated by dividing total entries by total views. The result is shown as a percentage.
- Unique Entries %: This percentage is calculated by dividing the number of unique entries by the total number of entries.
### Charts & graphs
#### Entries summary
This graph displays the number of unique and total entries received each day within the selected date range. If the campaign doesn't allow multiple entries, only one line (for unique entries) will appear.
> You can toggle data series by clicking on the labels. Click again to re-enable them.
#### Entries by device
A pie chart shows the percentage of participants by device type: mobile, tablet, or desktop.
#### Time to submit entry
This graph illustrates the exact time it takes for users to complete and submit the form. If the time is unusually high or low, consider:
- Low times: Review your bot prevention settings.
- High times: Review your form length, as longer forms tend to increase abandonment rates.
#### Graph options
Click the hamburger icon (≡) on the graph to:
- View the graph in full screen
- Print the chart
- Download the data as a CSV file
### Exporting data
To export your campaign data:
1. Click the Actions dropdown at the top right.
2. Select Export PDF.
3. A PDF will open, then choose the file name and save location.
### Related resources
[The Game-Changing Analytics and Data Collection Strategies Digital Marketers (Blog)](https://www.shortstack.com/blog/the-game-changing-analytics-and-data-collection-strategies-digital-marketers-need-in-2023)
[How to Plan and Promote a Lead Generation Contest (Blog Post)](https://www.shortstack.com/blog/lead-generation-campaign/)
[Analytics Overview (Help Doc)](https://www.shortstack.com/help/analytics-overview/)
[Analytics Manager (Help Doc)](https://www.shortstack.com/help/analytics-manager/)
[Entries Manager (Help Doc)](https://www.shortstack.com/help/entries-manager/)
---
## Entries Manager
URL: https://www.shortstack.com/help/entries-manager/
Category: Account & billing
Plan required: All plans
Last reviewed: 2026-08-14
The Entries Manager stores all data collected via a form, whether it includes only names and emails or media uploads, such as photos and videos. All collected data can be exported as a .csv or .zip file.
### Getting there
From the Dashboard:
1. Click Manage in the navigation menu.
2. Select Entries from the options.
#### From the Campaign Builder
1. Click the inbox icon for the Form Container or Entry Display Widget, which displays the number of entries.
If Favorited, simply click Entries in the side navigation menu.
> **Note:** Favoriting adds a direct link to the Entries Manager in the navigation menu. To favorite, click the heart icon next to the "Entries" title. Favorites are stored in your browser, so you’ll need to re-establish them when using a different browser or computer.
### Tile layout
#### Entries section
Entries appear in the middle of the screen, regardless of filters or sorting. Each entry displays the following:
- Attached image or still frame from a video (if any).
- Approval status (approved = green checkmark in the right corner below image).
- Number of votes/points (next to thumbs up icon).
- Submitted name and email address.
- Submission date and time.
- Tags and Labels
Hover over an entry to reveal the View Details button.
Learn more about [Entry Details](https://www.shortstack.com/help/entry-details/).
#### Entry selection
Select an entry by clicking it. Click and drag your cursor across the screen to quickly select multiple entries. Clear selections by clicking X Clear next to the counter.
### List layout
#### Entries section
Similar to the Tile Layout, each entry displays the following in editable columns:
- Attached image or still frame from a video (if any).
- Approval status (approved = green checkmark in the right corner below the image).
- Number of votes/points (next to thumbs up icon).
- Submitted name and email address.
- Submission date and time.
- Tags and Labels
Click an entry to access the Entry Details.
##### Columns
Click on the Columns button to edit the shown columns. Access Standard and Custom Fields for easy viewing.
Click on the Default Menu to save a custom view, import a view as an Export Profile, or reset the custom view to default.
#### Entry selection
Select an entry by clicking it. Click and drag your cursor across the screen to quickly select multiple entries. Clear selections by clicking X Clear next to the counter.
### Search and filtering
#### Search
Use the Search field (top-left) to locate entries using keywords or phrases. For labels, type the label name into the Label field.
#### Filters
Filters appear on the right-hand side. Selected entries update in real-time. Click Clear all in the Filters sidebar to remove all active filters at once. Options include:
- Approved: Show only approved, unapproved, or both.
- Date: Filter by a date range (use From and To fields).
- Lists: Add entries from other lists using the Select Lists option.
- Campaigns: Filter entries by campaign name via Select Campaigns.
- Hashtag Feeds: Filter entries from specific feeds using Select Feeds.
- Category: Filter entries by category name.
- City, State/Province, Zip/Postal Code, Country: Filter by geographical data (if applicable).
- Image: Filter by entries with or without images.
- Video: Filter by entries with or without videos.
- Votes/Points: Show entries based on vote counts for specific rounds.
- reCaptcha Score: Filter by reCaptcha score range (if enabled).
- Test Entries: Display test entries only.
- Hide Entries from Hashtag Feeds: Exclude entries from hashtag feeds.
- Custom Filters (Available on Max Plan): Filter using custom fields from the Field Library.
### Sorting
Sort entries by:
- Newest
- Oldest
- Most Votes
- Least Votes
Adjust the time zone in the Time Zone dropdown menu.
### Entry functions
Located in the top-right Actions menu, these options affect all filtered entries:
#### Approve or unapprove entries
Manually approve or unapprove entries. Select Approve or Unapprove in the pop-up, then click Submit & Close.
#### Label entries
Add labels to entries by typing them (comma-separated) in the label field. Press Enter/Return and click Submit & Close.
#### Copy entries to new list
Combine entries into a new list by naming it in the New List field. Add tags (Available on Max Plan), reset vote counts, or copy attached media via advanced options.
#### Export entries
Export entries as:
- Entries: A .csv file containing entry data.
- Uploaded Files: A .zip file of submitted media.
- Entries & Uploaded Files: Both formats.
Enter the recipient email, configure export profiles, and click Export & Close.
#### Pick random entries/winnerS
Use the Random Entry Picker to select winners. Add labels, adjust the weight by vote count, and filter by custom fields if needed.
#### Reset votes/points to 0
Reset votes for specific rounds by selecting them, entering the confirmation message, and clicking Reset Votes & Close.
#### Delete all entries
Delete all displayed entries permanently. Type the confirmation prompt and click Delete.
> **Note:** Deleted entries are not recoverable.
### Working with entries
When selecting entries, these options appear at the top:
#### Approve
Approve or unapprove selected entries via the Approve dropdown menu.
#### Label
Add labels to selected entries by typing them in the label field, pressing Enter/Return, and clicking Save.
#### Copy
Copy selected entries to a new list.
#### Delete
Delete selected entries. Confirm the selection in the pop-up, then click Delete to permanently remove them.
> **Note:** Deleted entries cannot be recovered.
### Related resources
[How to Collect Consumer Data Without Upsetting Customers (Blog)](https://www.shortstack.com/blog/how-to-collect-valuable-consumer-data-without-upsetting-customers/)
[Working With Entries (Help Doc)](https://www.shortstack.com/help/managing-entries/)
[Entry Details (Help Doc)](https://www.shortstack.com/help/entry-details/)
[Exporting Entry Data (Help Doc)](https://www.shortstack.com/help/exporting-entry-data/)
[How to Select Winners (Help Doc)](https://www.shortstack.com/help/how-to-select-winners/)
---
## Entry Count Widget
URL: https://www.shortstack.com/help/entry-count-widget/
Category: Widgets
Plan required: All plans
Last reviewed: 2026-02-24
The Entry Count Widget displays the number of entries collected in a specific list on your campaign. You can style and format the count using the Style Panel.
### Overview
[image: The Add Widgets panel with the Entry Count Widget icon, showing the numeral 42, circled in green.]
#### Adding the Entry Count Widget
To add the Entry Count Widget to your campaign:
1. Click the Entry Count Widget icon in the Add Widgets Panel, or
2. Drag the icon into your preview area.
### Widget settings
The widget settings pop-up allows you to configure the Entry Count Widget.
#### Renaming the widget
1. Click the pencil icon in the top-left corner (next to the widget name).
2. Enter a new name and press Enter.
#### CSS ID
The CSS ID (starting with a #) is displayed in the top-right corner of the pop-up.
#### Customization
Navigate through the menu on the left side to adjust settings. Use the Back and Next buttons to move between sections.
When finished, click the blue Save and Exit button.
### Entry Source
The Entry Source section lets you select the list from which the widget will display the entry count.
#### Selecting an existing list
1. Click Connect to Existing Source.
2. In the pop-up, scroll through the lists or use the Search field to find the desired list.
3. Click the list name to select it.
#### Creating a new list
1. Click the Create List button.
2. In the pop-up, provide the following: List name Number of test entries Tags (optional)
3. Click Create to finalize.
After creating a new list, add a [Form Container](https://www.shortstack.com/help/form-container-widget/) and select the list you just created. Then, build out your form using [Field Widgets](https://www.shortstack.com/help/field-widget/).
### Filtering
The Filtering section lets you control which entries are included in the entry count.
- Include both approved and unapproved: Displays all submitted entries.
- Only include approved: Displays only approved entries.
Click between these options to toggle your preference.
### Text
The Entry Count Widget includes minimal text, but you can customize it in the Text section:
- Modify the wording for multiple entries received (plural).
- Modify the wording for a single entry received (singular).
Enter your custom text in the provided fields.
### Visibility
Control when and where the widget appears using the Visibility section.
Options include:
- Setting specific dates and times for visibility.
- Displaying the widget only in the Builder.
- Limiting visibility to certain countries.
Learn more about [Widget Visibility.](https://www.shortstack.com/help/widget-visibility/)
### Extras
[Learn about the Main Tag, CSS Classes, and Smart Labels settings here.](https://www.shortstack.com/help/widget-extras/)
### Entry count styling options
When the Widget is selected, you can customize the styling of the specific widget. Some of the options include changing the text color, the maximum width of the widget, and widget alignment. You will see the following areas of styling available in the [Style Panel](https://www.shortstack.com/help/getting-started-with-the-style-panel/):
- General
- Value Text
- Label Text
- Widget
### Related resources
[How to View and Manage Entries (Video)](https://youtu.be/7OWSM5E8NDY?si=iW8bZleL1cvdqpro)
[Creating Segmented Lists (Help Docs)](https://www.shortstack.com/help/creating-segmented-lists/)
[Entry Display Widget (Help Doc)](https://www.shortstack.com/help/entry-display-widget/)
[Entry Search Widget (Help Doc)](https://www.shortstack.com/help/entry-search-widget/)
---
## Entry Details
URL: https://www.shortstack.com/help/entry-details/
Category: Managing entries
Plan required: All plans
Last reviewed: 2026-06-02
The Entry Details feature displays all the information a user submitted in their entry.
### Getting there
To view the details for a single entry:
1. Navigate to the Entries Manager through either the Dashboard or the Campaign Builder.
2. Hover over the desired entry.
3. Click the View Details button for that entry.
Learn more about the [Entries Manager](https://www.shortstack.com/help/entries-manager/).
### Layout
The Entry Details screen gives you easy access to view, approve, delete, and modify any information associated with an entry.
#### Navigation bar
At the top of the screen, the Navigation Bar includes four buttons:
- Back: Takes you back to the previous page (usually the Entries Manager).
- Prev: Takes you to the previous entry in the list.
- Next: Takes you to the next entry in the list.
- Edit: Allows you to edit the entry's information. (Details below.)
#### Entry data
This section provides details about the entry’s origin and submission, such as:
1. Name and Email
2. Location and IP Address
3. Entry Information
4. Other Entry Data
#### Additional information
Filtering: Click the filter icon next to any line to find entries using the same information (e.g., all entries from "US").
Campaign Editing: Click the Edit Campaign icon next to the campaign name to access the Campaign Builder.
Referral Link: If your campaign is live, clicking the Referral Link URL generates the Refer-A-Friend URL for the entry.
Labels: Add labels to the entry in the provided field. Labels can be used to differentiate winning entries, approved entries from judges, or for list segmentation.
Delete Entry: Remove the entry by clicking the Delete Entry button.
### Preview area
The Preview Area provides a snapshot of the image, video, or file submitted with the entry. Click the View Original link below the thumbnail to see the file in its original size. The file size is displayed to the left of the link, and the image dimensions (in pixels) to the right.
If the source image is located in Instagram, TikTok, Vimeo, or YouTube, click on the blue text View Original Post to see the source post.
#### Approval and votes
In the top-right corner, check (or uncheck) the box to approve or unapprove the entry.
The number of points/votes is displayed in the top-left corner. Clicking this number takes you to the Points/Votes page for that entry.
### Points/votes
Clicking the vote count at the top left of the Preview Area opens the Points/Votes page, which displays the details on each vote or point added to the entry. This area will show Votes, Additional points received for actions or fields, and referrals.
For votes or points, you will see the date the vote or point was made, along with the points/votes awarded.
For referrals, you will see the Entry ID, point(s), and the date.
#### Adjusting votes
To make a vote adjustment:
1. Click the New Adjustment button.
2. In the pop-up, enter the number of votes to add or remove (use a negative number to remove votes).
3. (Optional) Add a note explaining the reason for the adjustment.
4. Click Save.
### Editing an entry
Clicking the Edit button brings you to the entry editing screen, where you can update almost all aspects of an entry. You can edit the title, description, first/last name, email, address, phone number, and age. You can also edit
#### Managing files
Available on the Business Plan and higher.
To remove an uploaded file, click the trashcan icon in the top-right corner of the file preview. To add or replace a file, click the Add File button below the file preview, then choose a new file. A new preview will appear.
> Note: This feature allows you to correct small mistakes in an entry. No validation is performed, so use this feature cautiously.
### FAQs
Why can't a Team Member see a Custom Field's label?
A Team Member’s ability to view Custom Field labels depends on their access level. If they don’t have permission to see Custom Fields, labels such as “Store Location” will instead appear as “Custom_text_1.”
To fix this, open the Field Library and tag the Custom Fields with the Team Member’s name. This ensures the proper label is displayed for them.
Learn more about the [Field Library](https://www.shortstack.com/help/field-library/).
### Related resources
[Entries Manager (Help Doc)](https://www.shortstack.com/help/entries-manager/)
[How to View and Manage Entries (Video)](https://youtu.be/7OWSM5E8NDY?si=GjlqrZ4U59zkPgyd)
[Voting History (Help Doc)](https://www.shortstack.com/help/voting-history/)
[Manually Add Entries (Help Doc)](https://www.shortstack.com/help/manually-add-entries/)
### FAQs
#### Why can't a Team Member see a Custom Field's label?
A Team Member’s ability to view Custom Field labels depends on their access level. If they don’t have permission to see Custom Fields, labels such as “Store Location” will instead appear as “Custom_text_1.”
To fix this, open the Field Library and tag the Custom Fields with the Team Member’s name. This ensures the proper label is displayed for them.
Learn more about the [Field Library](https://www.shortstack.com/help/field-library/).
---
## Entry Display Widget
URL: https://www.shortstack.com/help/entry-display-widget/
Category: Widgets
Plan required: Launch plan
Last reviewed: 2026-10-08
The Entry Display Widget is used to showcase entries submitted via a Form Container Widget or through Feeds. It also allows you to enable voting for voting contests.
### Overview
[image: The Add Widgets panel with the Entry Display Widget icon, four squares in a grid, circled in green.]
#### Adding the widget
To add the widget to your campaign:
1. Click the Entry Display Widget icon in the Add Widgets Panel.
2. Drag and drop the icon into your preview area or the Edit Widgets Panel.
### Widget settings
The Widget Settings pop-up allows you to customize the Entry Display Widget.
#### Key settings information
##### Widget name
Click the pencil icon in the top-left to rename the widget.
##### CSS ID
View the widget’s CSS ID (starting with a #) in the top-right corner.
##### Navigation
Use the menu on the left to configure each section of the widget.
Use the Back and Next buttons at the bottom to navigate through settings.
##### Saving changes
Click the blue Save and Exit button to save your changes.
### List display
The List Display section connects your widget to an entry source.
#### Connect to an existing source
Click the link after Connect to Existing Source and select your list from the pop-up.
#### Create a new Entry Source
1. Click Create New Entry Source.
2. In the pop-up, enter a name, the number of test entries, and tags.
3. Click Create.
4. Once you have finished setting up the Entry Display Widget, create a Form Container and connect it to the list you just created.
Learn more about the [Form Container.](https://www.shortstack.com/help/form-container-widget/)
#### Display options
Control how entries are shown in the widget:
##### Sorting
Use the Sort entries from to sort entries by:
- Newest to oldest
- Least to most votes
- Most to least votes
##### Entries per page
Specify the number of entries displayed per page (maximum: 30). If you need to display more, please contact support.
#### Filtering
The Filtering section offers options to display specific entries:
- Hide Unapproved Entries: Only display entries verified by your team.
- Filter by Votes/Points: Show top entries based on votes. Select the voting round and number of top entries to display.
- Filter by Category: Display entries by category. Leaving the category field blank allows dynamic filtering via [Action Widgets](https://www.shortstack.com/help/action-widget/).
- Filter by Label: Showcase entries with specific labels (e.g., for winners).
#### Advanced options
Disable pop-up showing referred/shared entry.
### Voting
Enable public voting on entries through the Voting section:
#### Enable voting
Check the Enable Voting box.
##### Display options
Choose to show total votes, percentage of total votes, or hide vote counts.
##### Voting Rounds
Configure voting rounds for multi-round contests in the Filtering section.
##### Schedule voting
Set the voting start and end dates
When you schedule voting to begin and end at specific times, the vote button will only appear during that period. Use this setting to show entries before or after voting if needed.
Adjust the campaign’s time zone for accuracy.
#### Voting restrictions
Enforce rules for voting in the Restriction section:
- No Restrictions: Unlimited votes per visitor.
- Anonymous Fingerprint: Restricts votes using anonymized browser and IP data.
- Email Address: (Available on Max plan) Voters submit and verify an email to vote.
##### Frequency limits
Specify how often users can vote by entry, category, or list.
Define restrictions by days, hours, minutes, or seconds.[image: The Voting Restrictions section with Restrict voting ticked, set to allow one vote per entry every ten seconds with unlimited votes per campaign, and an error message field reading You already voted!]
##### Google reCAPTCHA
Available on Scale Plan and higher.
Enable Google reCAPTCHA to reduce spam and illegitimate votes:
1. Click the link labeled Configure in Campaign Settings → Security.
2. Click the Choose Profile button.
3. Select an existing profile, or click the Add button to connect a new set of keys.
4. Check the box for Enable Google reCAPTCHA.
5. Use the Sensitivity Level slider to adjust the strictness of the verification.
Learn more about [How to Create Google reCaptcha Keys](https://www.shortstack.com/help/how-to-create-google-recaptcha-keys/).
#### Advanced settings
Depending on your user-flow for your campaign, you may want to:
- Start with Vote Button Hidden- Hide the vote button until an action occurs (think Form Submission). See the [Action Widget](https://www.shortstack.com/help/action-widget/) for more details.
- Re-enable Vote Button after voting- You can determine the wait time between when the vote button reappears.
### Fields
Control the fields shown in the entry tile and pop-up view.
#### Standard fields
The following fields can be shown in the Entry Display Tile:
- Entrant Name
- Entry Title
- Entry Description
- Entry Category
- Media
#### Custom fields
If you have additional custom fields, such as a text field, this can only be viewed in the pop-up view of the tile. All custom fields will be displayed in this tab, and you can check to enable them in the pop-up view or not.
### Share
Fine-tune sharing settings in the Sharing section.
#### Enable sharing
Check the box to allow sharing.
#### Custom settings
Toggle between entry and custom settings for titles, descriptions, and images.
#### Social media channels
Drag and drop to arrange channel order. Customize each channel’s settings individually.
### Visibility
Control when and where the widget is visible:
- Limit visibility by date, time, or geographical location.
- Make the widget a pop-up.
Learn more about [Widget Visibility](https://www.shortstack.com/help/widget-visibility/).
### Extras
[Learn about the Main Tag, CSS Classes, and Smart Labels settings here.](https://www.shortstack.com/help/widget-extras/)
### Multi-round voting
You can create up to 3 rounds of voting, in each round narrowing down the entries to vote on. Here's how:
#### 1. Add and rename Entry Display Widgets
1. Add three Entry Display Widgets to your campaign.
2. Rename each widget: Round 1, Round 2, Round 3.
3. Connect each widget to the same List for the contest.
#### 2. Configure round 1
1. Open the Round 1 Entry Display Widget settings.
2. Open the voting section and enable voting.
3. Set the voting round to Round 1 and specify the timeframe.
4. Save and exit.
#### 3. Configure round 2
1. Open the Round 2 Entry Display Widget settings.
2. Expand the filtering section and check "Filter by votes/points."
3. Select voting round 1.
4. Enter the number of top entries to display in the field. Click Next.
5. Enable voting.
6. Set the voting round to Round 2 and update the timeframe.
#### 4. Configure round 3
Repeat the steps above as listed in Configure Round 2, however, remember:
- Change step 3 to voting Round 2
- Change step 6 to voting Round 3
#### 5. Update visibility
Adjust the visibility settings for all widgets to show only during their respective voting rounds.
### Entry display styling options
When the Widget is selected, you can customize the styling of the specific widget. Some of the options include changing the number of columns, tile color, media navigation icons, the maximum width of the widget, and widget alignment. You will see the following areas of styling available in the [Style Panel](https://www.shortstack.com/help/getting-started-with-the-style-panel/):
- Columns
- Entry Tile
- Entrant Name
- Vote Count
- Category
- Title
- Description
- Custom Fields
- Vote Button
- Sharing
- Load More
- Pop-Up: General
- Pop-Up: Media
- Widget
### FAQs
Can a voter undo a vote?
No, once the voter clicks on the vote button, the vote has been cast. The voter can email you, and you can manually update the vote count for the entry in the Entries Manager.
Learn more about [Adjusting Votes](https://www.shortstack.com/help/entries-manager/).
How can I prevent bots or fraudulent votes?
The most secure method of vote restrictions is the Email Login option. This is available on the Max Plan. Additionally, requiring voters to enter their name and email address into a form drastically reduces the likelihood of fraudulent votes. As a bonus, when using a form, you will collect more leads!
How do I set up voting restrictions?
Let's look at the following example: You can vote a maximum of 10 times a day, with one vote per entry.
1. Open the Entry Display Widget settings and access the Voting tab.
2. Enable Voting Restrictions.
3. Change the total number of votes to 10.
4. Click on the blue text entry or category to change it to list.
5. Click on add interval...
6. Change the interval number to 1.
7. Click on hour and select day.
8. Save and exit.
### Related resources
[3 Types of Video Contests for Instagram and Facebook (Blog)](https://www.shortstack.com/blog/types-of-video-contests-for-instagram-and-facebook/)
[Lists Manager (Help Docs)](https://www.shortstack.com/help/lists-manager/)
[How to Set Up Voting (Help Doc)](https://www.shortstack.com/help/how-to-set-up-voting/)
[Using the Label Filter to Display Specific Entries (Help Doc)](https://www.shortstack.com/help/using-the-label-filter-to-display-specific-entries/)
### FAQs
#### Can a voter undo a vote?
No, once the voter clicks on the vote button, the vote has been cast. The voter can email you, and you can manually update the vote count for the entry in the Entries Manager.
Learn more about [Adjusting Votes](https://www.shortstack.com/help/entries-manager/).
#### How can I prevent bots or fraudulent votes?
The most secure method of vote restrictions is the Email Login option. This is available on the Max Plan. Additionally, requiring voters to enter their name and email address into a form drastically reduces the likelihood of fraudulent votes. As a bonus, when using a form, you will collect more leads!
#### How do I set up voting restrictions?
Let's look at the following example: You can vote a maximum of 10 times a day, with one vote per entry.
1. Open the Entry Display Widget settings and access the Voting tab.
2. Enable Voting Restrictions.
3. Change the total number of votes to 10.
4. Click on the blue text entry or category to change it to list.
5. Click on add interval...
6. Change the interval number to 1.
7. Click on hour and select day.
8. Save and exit.
---
## Entry Profiles Manager
URL: https://www.shortstack.com/help/entry-profiles-manager/
Category: Account & billing
Plan required: All plans
Last reviewed: 2026-08-13
The Entry Profiles Manager allows you to view all saved entry profiles, which are created using the export wizard or settings in the Entries Manager.
### Getting there
From the Dashboard:
1. Click Manage in the navigation menu.
2. Select Entry Profiles from the options.
If Favorited, simply click Entry Profiles in the side navigation menu.
> **Note:** Favoriting adds a direct link to the Entry Profiles Manager to your navigation menu. To favorite, click the heart icon next to the "Entry Profiles" title. Favorites are stored in your browser, so you’ll need to re-establish them when using a different browser or computer.
### Profile information
Your profiles appear on the right-hand side. Each info pane includes:
- Profile Name
- Description (if added)
- Last Edited: The date/time the profile was last edited.
- Created Date: The date the profile was created.
Hover over a profile’s name to reveal a pencil icon for renaming. Type the new name and click the blue checkmark to save it.
To edit a profile, click its icon to open the profile editor. Additional management options are available via the dropdown menu (arrow on the right).
### Additional profile options
#### Permissions
For [ShortStack for Teams](https://www.shortstack.com/help/shortstack-for-teams/) users, click Permissions to set access levels for your team members.
#### Delete
Delete the profile to remove it from your account.
> **Note:** Deleting profiles is permanent and does not affect any entries or lists associated with the profile. Ensure you no longer need a profile before deleting it.
### Search & tag
#### Search
Use the Search field (top-left) to locate profiles by keywords or phrases.
#### Tag
Available on Max Plan.
Search profiles by tags attached to them. Results appear automatically on the right.
### Filtering
Filters appear on the left-hand side, allowing you to filter profiles by:
- Profile Type: Export or Integration.
- Archived Status
Clear filters by clicking the x icon next to the filter name.
### Sorting
Sort profiles by:
- Recently Edited
- Newest
- Oldest
- Alphabetically (A–Z)
- Reverse Alphabetically (Z–A)
### Working with entry profiles
Click and drag your cursor across the screen to quickly select multiple Entry Profiles.
#### Tag
Available on Max Plan
Add tags to selected profiles by:
1. Clicking the Tag button.
2. Write the tag(s), separate by commas..
3. Pressing Enter/Return, then clicking the blue Save button.
#### Archive
Archive selected profiles by clicking Archive. Archived profiles disappear from view unless the Show Archived option is enabled in the filters.
To restore archived profiles:
1. Enable Show Archived.
2. Select the profiles to restore.
3. Click Restore at the top of the screen.
#### Delete
Delete multiple profiles by:
1. Selecting the profiles to highlight them.
2. Clicking the Delete button.
3. Typing the confirmation phrase and clicking the red Delete button.
> **Note:** Deleting profiles is permanent. Ensure profiles are no longer needed before deleting.
### Related resources
[How to Export Entries (Video)](https://youtu.be/sJ2swokDn-M)
[Exporting Data Using Export Profiles (Help Doc)](https://www.shortstack.com/help/exporting-data-using-export-profiles/)
[Exporting Entry Data (Help Doc)](https://www.shortstack.com/help/exporting-entry-data/)
[Exports Manager (Help Doc)](https://www.shortstack.com/help/exports-manager/)
---
## Entry Restrictions
URL: https://www.shortstack.com/help/entry-restrictions/
Category: Entry security & best practices
Plan required: All plans
Last reviewed: 2026-10-08
Contests, giveaways, sweepstakes, and digital marketing campaigns often involve enticing prizes, ranging from fun swag to high-value makeovers. However, without proper entry restrictions, you risk poor-quality leads, spam, bot entries, and dissatisfied clients.
### Overview
This document outlines methods to restrict and manage entries effectively.
### Restrict via email address
Restrict entries based on a specific email address:
1. Open the Form Container settings.
2. Navigate to the Entry Restrictions section.
3. Select Email Address and specify the time frame for entries. Example: Restrict entries to 1 every 24 hours.
### Email Login
Available on Max Plan.
The Email Login method is the most secure way to prevent fraudulent entries. It requires entrants to verify their email via a unique code, ensuring only valid email addresses are used.
#### Steps to set up Email Login
1. Add a Field Widget to your Form Container.
2. Select Login Field from the list of fields.
3. In the Layout section, click the red Email Configuration Required button.
4. Create a new email campaign in the wizard to configure the verification email. Save and activate the campaign.
5. Customize the email campaign text.
6. (Optional) Configure how often an entrant must verify their email in the Verification frequency section. The default is Verify every 30 days, and any longer interval is available. Always verify, or an interval shorter than 30 days, requires your own [SendGrid account connected to ShortStack](https://www.shortstack.com/help/setting-up-and-connecting-sendgrid-to-shortstack/). Codes are 6 digits, expire after 15 minutes, and work only once.
7. Close the Login Field Widget by clicking Save and Exit.
8. Open the Form Container settings.
9. Ensure the container is set to restrict entries by login.
10. Adjust the number of allowable entries per time frame, then save and exit.
### Country-based visibility
Available on the Max Plan.
Restrict or display content based on the visitor’s country, using their IP address to determine location. This helps reduce spam and improve lead quality.
#### Steps to set country-based visibility
1. Open the visibility settings for the widget you want to configure.
2. Click All Countries to access the country picker.
3. Select specific countries from the dropdown: Click a country to add it to the Visible Countries column. Use the Select All button for all countries, and move selected countries as needed.
### Bot prevention
#### Google reCaptcha
Available on Scale Plan and higher.
Enable Google reCaptcha to add a CAPTCHA to your forms or voting widgets.
1. Locate the Google reCaptcha setting in the Form Container or Entry Display Widget settings.
2. In the Restrictions section, check the box to Enable Google reCaptcha.
3. Adjust the Sensitivity Level slider to determine CAPTCHA strictness. If entrants encounter issues, move the slider left to make the CAPTCHA more lenient.
Learn [How to Create Google reCaptcha Keys](https://www.shortstack.com/help/how-to-create-google-recaptcha-keys/).
#### Cloudflare Turnstile
Available on Scale Plan and higher.
Cloudflare Turnstile creates a turnstile to verify whether visitors are human before they access your campaign.
##### Adjusting Cloudflare Turnstile settings
1. Access the Campaign Builder Settings (gear icon at the top of the builder).
2. Click the Security section.
3. Select one of the following options from the dropdown: Invisible (default): Best for embedded campaigns. Uses an invisible challenge with no interaction. Visible: Prompts visitors with an interactive challenge if necessary. Ideal for stand-alone landing pages. Disable: Turns off Turnstile (not recommended due to increased fraud risk).
4. For embedded campaigns, check the box to Enable if my campaign is embedded to activate Cloudflare Turnstile.
#### Key notes
- Both Google reCaptcha and Cloudflare Turnstile are valuable tools for reducing bot entries, though no method is completely foolproof.
- ShortStack engineers are continuously improving bot prevention solutions.
- For best results, combine multiple restriction methods to secure your campaigns effectively.
### Related resources
[7 Essential Security Features You Need to Prevent Cheating in Your Next Contest or Giveaway (Blog)](https://www.shortstack.com/blog/7-essential-security-features-you-need-to-prevent-cheating-in-your-next-contest-or-giveaway)
[Setting up Email Login for Voting (Help Doc)](https://www.shortstack.com/help/setting-up-email-login-for-voting/)
[Prohibit Fraudulent and Spam Entries with Fraud Filter Feature (Help Doc)](https://www.shortstack.com/help/prohibit-fraudulent-and-spam-entries-with-fraud-filter-feature/)
[Cloudflare Turnstile (Help Doc)](https://www.shortstack.com/help/cloudflare-turnstile/)
[Bot and Fraud Prevention Tools (Help Doc)](https://www.shortstack.com/help/bot-and-fraud-prevention-tools/)
---
## Entry Search Widget
URL: https://www.shortstack.com/help/entry-search-widget/
Category: Widgets
Plan required: Max plan
Last reviewed: 2026-03-16
The Entry Search Widget allows entrants to search through campaign entries using variables such as email or name. This eliminates the need to manually browse through each page, making it especially useful for campaigns with a large number of entries and campaigns with voting.
### Overview
[image: The Add Widgets panel with the Entry Search Widget icon, a magnifying glass, circled in green.]
#### Adding the Entry Search Widget
To add the Entry Search Widget to your campaign:
1. Click the Entry Search Widget icon in the Add Widgets Panel, or
2. Drag the icon into your preview area.
### Widget settings
The widget settings pop-up allows you to customize the Entry Search Widget.
#### Renaming the widget
1. Click the pencil icon in the top-left corner (next to the widget name).
2. Enter a new name and press Enter.
#### CSS ID
The CSS ID (starting with a #) is displayed in the top-right corner of the pop-up.
#### Customization
Navigate through the left-side menu to configure the widget. Use the Back and Next buttons to move between sections.
When finished, click the blue Save and Exit button.
### Setup
The Setup section is where most of the Entry Search Widget configuration occurs.
#### Entry Display Widget connection
Use the Entry Display Widget to be searched dropdown to select the Entry Display Widget containing the entries you want to make searchable.
#### Searchable fields
In the Searchable fields area, check the boxes next to the fields that entrants can use to search.
For example, check the Email box to allow entrants to find entries by typing an email address.
#### Customizing the search field
Use the Input label field to add text that appears above the search field (e.g., "Search for an entry").
Use the Placeholder field to add text that appears inside the search field before a term is entered (e.g., "Enter name or email").
### Visibility
Control when and where the widget appears using the Visibility section.
Options include:
- Setting specific dates and times for visibility.
- Displaying the widget only in the Builder.
- Limiting visibility to certain countries.
Learn more about [Widget Visibility.](https://www.shortstack.com/help/widget-visibility/)
### Extras
[Learn about the Main Tag, CSS Classes, and Smart Labels settings here.](https://www.shortstack.com/help/widget-extras/)
### Entry search styling options
When the Widget is selected, you can customize the styling of the specific widget. Some of the options include changing the background color, the maximum width of the widget, and widget alignment. You will see the following areas of styling available in the [Style Panel](https://www.shortstack.com/help/getting-started-with-the-style-panel/):
- Label
- Input Box
- Widget
### Related resources
[Entry Display Widget (Help Docs)](https://www.shortstack.com/help/entry-display-widget/)
[Using the Label Filter to Display Specific Entries (Help Doc)](https://www.shortstack.com/help/using-the-label-filter-to-display-specific-entries/)
---
## Error messages and what they mean
URL: https://www.shortstack.com/help/error-messages/
Category: Getting help
Plan required: All plans
Last reviewed: 2026-10-13
Look up a ShortStack error message by its exact wording to see what it means and how to fix it. Most come from a setting, not a bug: a domain missing from a connected site or reCAPTCHA key, a widget your plan doesn't include, or a form with no list. Each entry links to the full article.
Search this page for the exact words you see: press Cmd+F (Mac) or Ctrl+F (Windows) and type a few distinctive words from the message. Every heading quotes the message exactly as ShortStack, your browser, Google or Meta shows it, including any typos.
> **Tip:** If the message mentions a web address or an account name, search for the words around it instead. For example, search "refused to connect" rather than your own domain.
### Embedding and publishing
#### "m.cmpgn.page refused to connect." / "This site can't be reached"
What it means: the page showing your embedded campaign isn't on the campaign's connected site, so the campaign won't load there. You may see lndg.page, shortstack.page or your own domain in place of m.cmpgn.page. A common case is a staging site or a second domain that was never added.
How to fix it:
- Add the page's domain to the connected site for that publication. One connected site can cover both your staging and live domains, so you don't need a second embed.
- Use only one set of ShortStack embed code on the page. Two copies of the code on one page can cause this error.
- If it loads for you but not for colleagues or a client, their company firewall is probably blocking it. Ask them to try on a phone using mobile data, then send their IT team [Whitelisting ShortStack's domains](https://www.shortstack.com/help/whitelisting-shortstacks-domains/).
Full steps are in [Troubleshooting embed issues](https://www.shortstack.com/help/troubleshooting-embed-issues/).
#### "m.cmpgn.page's server IP address could not be found."
What it means: the browser couldn't look up ShortStack's campaign domain. It's almost always the viewer's network, such as an office firewall. It can also happen briefly during an outage at our hosting provider.
How to fix it:
- Open the page on a phone using mobile data, not office Wi-Fi. If it loads there, ask your IT team to allow ShortStack's domains ([Whitelisting ShortStack's domains](https://www.shortstack.com/help/whitelisting-shortstacks-domains/)).
- If it fails on every network and browser, wait a few minutes and refresh, then contact support if it continues.
#### "embed code is pending"
What it means: while you publish an inline embed, ShortStack doesn't yet see the global embed script on your website.
How to fix it:
- Install the global embed code on your site ([How to install our global embed code (2.0)](https://www.shortstack.com/help/how-to-install-our-global-embed-code-2-0/)), then go back to the publish step.
- Check the Publications Manager. Your campaign may already be published even while the message shows. A firewall or a browser extension on your side can block the check.
#### "Publishing timed out -- please close this dialog and try again. If this problem continues, please contact support."
What it means: the publish request didn't finish in time. Both cases on record were a temporary problem on ShortStack's side, not a campaign setting.
How to fix it:
- Close the dialog and publish again.
- If it times out again, contact support with the campaign link. Don't keep changing your campaign to work around it.
#### "Campaign not found"
What it means: the campaign isn't published at that address. It shows on every ShortStack campaign that has been unpublished. A new campaign can also show it briefly while support reviews it (see "flagged for a brief review").
How to fix it:
- If you unpublished the campaign by mistake, publish it again.
- If the campaign has ended and you don't want visitors to see this message, see [Visitors see "Campaign not found"](https://www.shortstack.com/help/troubleshooting-embed-issues/#visitors-see-campaign-not-found) for your options.
#### A 404 page when someone opens a share link
What it means: share links point to the page address saved in the publication's settings. If that address is wrong or the page has moved, people who open a shared link get a 404.
How to fix it:
1. Open the Publications Manager in the Campaign Builder.
2. Open the publication's settings (gear icon).
3. Change the address to the page where the campaign actually lives, and save.
### Voting
#### "An error occurred with your vote. Please refresh the page and try again." (widgets.entry.voting_error)
What it means: the vote was rejected. The voter sees the message (this is the default wording; it can be changed on the widget's Text tab, and older campaigns may show "Please try again."), and the browser console shows {"errors":{"base":"widgets.entry.voting_error"}}. It can be caused by the widget's visibility dates, a vote outside the voting schedule, voting disabled on the widget, a failed reCAPTCHA check, or a voting limit that's been used up.
How to fix it:
- Check the [widget visibility](https://www.shortstack.com/help/widget-visibility/) dates on every Entry Display Widget that should accept votes, and on any container around it.
- Check the voting schedule on the widget's Voting tab, and that voting is turned on for the widget.
- If the campaign uses reCAPTCHA, check that the key works ([How to create Google reCAPTCHA keys](https://www.shortstack.com/help/how-to-create-google-recaptcha-keys/)).
- Check the voting restrictions. A voter who has used up their limit can't vote again until the restriction period has passed.
- Publish changes, then test again.
See [Troubleshooting voting](https://www.shortstack.com/help/troubleshooting-voting/) for more causes.
#### "We could not verify that you are human. Please refresh the page and try again."
What it means: the vote was blocked because the voter looked like a bot, for example when the Google reCAPTCHA check on the Entry Display Widget fails.
How to fix it:
- Ask the voter to refresh the page and vote again.
- If many real voters see it, check that the campaign's reCAPTCHA keys work ([How to create Google reCAPTCHA keys](https://www.shortstack.com/help/how-to-create-google-recaptcha-keys/)).
#### "You already voted!"
What it means: the voter has reached the limit set in the Entry Display Widget's voting restrictions. This is the default message. You can change its wording in the restriction settings, so your campaign may show different text.
How to fix it:
- If voters share a household, an office or a device, the Anonymous Fingerprint restriction can treat them as one voter. Switch to a different restriction type, or tell voters to use a different network or browser.
- If a voter is still blocked after the restriction period has passed, ask them to clear their browser cache and cookies for the past 24 hours and try again.
- To check what was recorded, click the vote total at the top left of the entry's details in the Entries Manager.
See [Troubleshooting voting](https://www.shortstack.com/help/troubleshooting-voting/) and the voting restrictions in [Entry Display Widget](https://www.shortstack.com/help/entry-display-widget/).
### Google reCAPTCHA
#### "ERROR for site owner: Invalid domain for site key"
What it means: Google rejected your reCAPTCHA key because the campaign's domain isn't on the key's domain list. It can block voting, email verification codes and form entries.
How to fix it:
1. Open your key in Google's reCAPTCHA admin console.
2. Add the domain the campaign is served from. For an embed, that's usually ShortStack's domain (cmpgn.page, lndg.page or shortstack.page), not only your own website.
3. Enter domains only, such as shortstack.page, with no page paths.
Also check you didn't paste the same value into both the Site Key and Secret Key fields. Full steps are in [How to create Google reCAPTCHA keys](https://www.shortstack.com/help/how-to-create-google-recaptcha-keys/).
### Forms and entries
#### A 404 page after clicking Enter
What it means: the form submitted, but the after-submit redirect sends people to a page that doesn't exist.
How to fix it:
1. Open the Form Container settings and select the After submit tab.
2. Change the after-submission action to Use Action Widgets, then save.
3. In the Action Widget that runs after submission, remove the old actions and add a Campaign → Redirect action with the correct address.
4. Publish changes and test.
Support recommends Action Widgets for anything that happens after submission ([Action Widget](https://www.shortstack.com/help/action-widget/)).
#### "An error occurred while importing entries. Please try again later"
What it means: the List Importer couldn't process your CSV file.
How to fix it:
- Put each value in its own column and save the file as .csv.
- Try the import again.
- If it still fails, send the file to support.
> **Important:** Wrong column headers don't show an error. The list still uploads, but any field whose header doesn't match comes in empty. Before importing, compare your headers with the standard headers in [Using the List Importer](https://www.shortstack.com/help/using-the-list-importer/), or start from the template there.
Importing always creates a new list. It doesn't update an existing one, so reconnect any widget, such as a leaderboard, to the new list.
#### "Too many requests"
What it means: the campaign's Rate limiting setting caps how many entries it accepts from one IP address per minute, to stop bots flooding the form. People on the same network, such as an office, a school or an event's Wi-Fi, share an IP address, so a busy moment can hit the cap.
How to fix it:
- Ask entrants to wait a minute and try again.
- If many people will enter from one place at once, raise the limit under Rate limiting in [Campaign settings](https://www.shortstack.com/help/campaign-settings/#rate-limiting). A higher limit lets more bot entries through, so raise it only as far as you need.
### Account and plan
#### "Your plan does not include the use of this widget."
What it means: the campaign contains a widget your plan doesn't include. The message shows inside that widget in the Campaign Builder. The usual one is the [Entry Search Widget](https://www.shortstack.com/help/entry-search-widget/), which is a Max plan feature and comes with some voting templates.
How to fix it:
- Select the widget that shows the message and delete it. The message disappears and the rest of the campaign is unaffected.
- To keep the widget, [upgrade your plan](https://www.shortstack.com/help/upgrading-your-plan/).
> **Note:** If the widget used to work, your plan may have changed. A feature added to your account as a one-off extra doesn't carry over when you change plans. Contact support if you think you should still have it.
#### "Your session has expired -- please log in again"
What it means: ShortStack signed you out in the middle of a task, such as uploading or choosing an image. This usually happens when two people use the same login at the same time.
How to fix it:
- Don't share one login. Give each person their own seat ([ShortStack for Teams](https://www.shortstack.com/help/shortstack-for-teams/)).
- Log out, log back in, and try again.
- If it keeps happening and nobody else uses your login, contact support. It has also been caused by a bug that we fixed.
#### "Unknown Error"
What it means: the Campaign Builder hit an error it couldn't name. When many of these appear together, ShortStack is usually having a temporary slowdown.
How to fix it: wait a few minutes and refresh. If it continues, contact support.
#### "flagged for a brief review"
What it means: ShortStack holds emails that contain links, and campaigns that look suspicious, for a quick check by our support team before they go out. During normal business hours, support usually verifies them within minutes; on weekends, within 24 hours. Until the review is finished, a campaign's published address can show "campaign not found".
How to fix it: wait for support to finish the review. If it's taking longer than that, contact support.
See [New accounts and protecting deliverability](https://www.shortstack.com/help/new-accounts-and-protecting-deliverability/).
### Emails
#### "DMARC policy found with p=quarantine."
What it means: the Email Builder found that your From Address's domain has a strict DMARC policy. Emails sent from it through ShortStack are likely to land in spam, or be rejected by the recipient's mail server.
How to fix it:
- Ask whoever manages your domain to change its DMARC policy to p=none, or
- Send from one of ShortStack's default From Addresses.
See [Troubleshooting emails](https://www.shortstack.com/help/troubleshooting-emails/).
#### "Your account must be manually reviewed before including links in your emails"
What it means: to keep spam and fraud off ShortStack, emails with links from a new account are held until support reviews the account. During normal business hours, support usually reviews them within minutes; on weekends, within 24 hours.
How to fix it: wait for the review, or contact support. Once support has approved your account, your emails with links send without the review.
See [New accounts and protecting deliverability](https://www.shortstack.com/help/new-accounts-and-protecting-deliverability/).
### Social imports
#### "You've reach the maximum number of feeds."
What it means: you already have as many Instagram hashtag feeds as your plan allows. Free and Launch allow 1, Build 2, Scale 3 and Max unlimited. Ending a feed doesn't free the slot.
How to fix it:
1. Delete the feed you no longer need in the [Hashtag Feeds Manager](https://www.shortstack.com/help/hashtag-feeds-manager/). Deleting a feed keeps its entries and list.
2. Log out of ShortStack and back in, then create the new feed.
Or [upgrade your plan](https://www.shortstack.com/help/upgrading-your-plan/) to run more feeds at once.
#### "{permission}" is required in order to give this app access to the permissions you selected.
What it means: this message comes from Meta. Your Facebook account doesn't have access to the ad account behind the promoted post or ad you're importing from.
How to fix it: ask an admin of the Business Manager that owns the ad account to give you View performance access to it, then connect again. See [Get access to promoted (ad) posts](https://www.shortstack.com/help/granting-page-permissions-using-meta-business-suite/#get-access-to-promoted-ad-posts) for the steps.
### FAQs
What if my error message isn't on this page?
Contact support@shortstack.com and paste the exact wording, or attach a screenshot. Include the link to your campaign in the Campaign Builder and, if the error happens on a live page, a screenshot of your browser's console log ([how to open it](https://www.shortstack.com/help/how-to-access-your-browsers-console-log/)).
The fix didn't work. What should I send support?
The exact error text, what you clicked just before it appeared, the browser you're using, and the Campaign Builder link. If the error appears only for some people, say whether they're on an office or company network, because a firewall is a common cause.
### Related resources
- [Troubleshooting embed issues](https://www.shortstack.com/help/troubleshooting-embed-issues/)
- [How to access your browser's console log](https://www.shortstack.com/help/how-to-access-your-browsers-console-log/)
- [Troubleshooting issues with feeds and Facebook/Instagram importer tools](https://www.shortstack.com/help/troubleshooting-issues-with-feeds-and-facebook-instagram-importer-tools/)
### FAQs
#### What if my error message isn't on this page?
Contact support@shortstack.com and paste the exact wording, or attach a screenshot. Include the link to your campaign in the Campaign Builder and, if the error happens on a live page, a screenshot of your browser's console log ([how to open it](https://www.shortstack.com/help/how-to-access-your-browsers-console-log/)).
#### The fix didn't work. What should I send support?
The exact error text, what you clicked just before it appeared, the browser you're using, and the Campaign Builder link. If the error appears only for some people, say whether they're on an office or company network, because a firewall is a common cause.
---
## Exporting entries with Export Profiles
URL: https://www.shortstack.com/help/exporting-data-using-export-profiles/
Category: Managing entries
Plan required: All plans
Last reviewed: 2026-10-11
An export profile is a saved layout for your entry exports: which fields become columns, in what order, and what each column is called. You must use one to export more than 1,000 entries, and when you export from more than one list, it's the only way to include custom fields from the form builder.
### When you need an export profile
| Your export | Do you need a profile? |
| More than 1,000 entries | Yes. The export won't start without one. |
| Entries from more than one list at once | Yes, to keep your custom fields. Without a profile, fields you added in the form builder are left out. Filtering to a single list also keeps them. |
| Anything else | No, but it can still save you time. |
A profile is worth setting up even when it's optional if:
- you export the same list regularly and want the same columns every time;
- you import the file into a CRM or email tool that expects particular column names;
- the tool you import into needs a column with the same value on every row, such as the campaign name.
### Create a profile while exporting
1. In the Lists Manager, click the down arrow beside the list and choose View Entries. Filter the entries if you need to: the export includes exactly the entries your filters show.
2. Click Actions, then Export Entries, and choose Entries, or Entries & Uploaded Files to include uploads.
3. When the wizard asks about an export profile, choose Yes. With more than 1,000 entries it skips the question and opens the list of profiles.
4. Click Add and give the profile a name you'll recognise next time.
5. Under Field Mappings, remove columns you don't need with the trash can icon, add any that are missing (see below), and rename a column by changing its Output Field Name.
6. Click Save, click the profile's name, then click Select.
7. Finish the wizard: enter the email address to send the file to, and click Export & Close.
### Choosing what goes in each column
The field list starts with the fields your form collected, which isn't always every field. Add the rest with these buttons:
| Button | What it adds | Use it when |
| Add One Field | A single field of your choice. | A field you need isn't listed. |
| Add All Standard Fields | Every standard field the profile doesn't have yet. Standard fields are the ones a form can use only once: Name, Email, Address, Upload and Category. | You want everything, and will remove a few. |
When you add one field, its Type sets how the column is filled:
| Type | What goes in the column | Use it when |
| Simple Map | The value of one entry field. This is the default. | Almost always. |
| Set Constant | The same value on every row, typed into Constant Value. | Your import needs a fixed value, such as a source or campaign name. |
### Using a saved profile
When the wizard asks about an export profile, choose Yes, click the profile's name, then click Select. If you're exporting from a single list, tick Save as default profile for this list and it's chosen for you next time.
To rename, edit or delete profiles, use the [Entry Profiles Manager](https://www.shortstack.com/help/entry-profiles-manager/).
### If the export isn't what you expected
- Custom form fields are missing. You exported from more than one list without a profile. Filter to a single list, or use a profile.
- Entries are missing. The export includes only the entries that match your current filters, and never deleted ones. Check the filters in the Entries Manager and export again.
- A column name doesn't match what your CRM expects. Change that column's Output Field Name in the profile, then export again.
- You can't find the file. It's emailed to you when it's ready, and it's listed in the [Exports Manager](https://www.shortstack.com/help/exports-manager/).
### FAQs
Why is ShortStack asking me to choose an export profile?
Your export has more than 1,000 entries. Exports that size must use a profile, so the export wizard opens the list of profiles and won't continue until you choose or create one.
Are deleted entries included in an export?
No. An export contains exactly the entries that match your current filters in the Entries Manager, and never deleted entries.
Where do I find the exported file?
It's emailed to you when it's ready, and it's also listed in the Exports Manager, where you can download it.
### Related resources
[How to Export Entries (Video)](https://youtu.be/sJ2swokDn-M)
[Exporting Entry Data (Help Doc)](https://www.shortstack.com/help/exporting-entry-data/)
[Exports Manager (Help Doc)](https://www.shortstack.com/help/exports-manager/)
[Entry Profiles Manager (Help Doc)](https://www.shortstack.com/help/entry-profiles-manager/)
[Entry Details (Help Doc)](https://www.shortstack.com/help/entry-details/)
### FAQs
#### Why is ShortStack asking me to choose an export profile?
Your export has more than 1,000 entries. Exports that size must use a profile, so the export wizard opens the list of profiles and won't continue until you choose or create one.
#### Are deleted entries included in an export?
No. An export contains exactly the entries that match your current filters in the Entries Manager, and never deleted entries.
#### Where do I find the exported file?
It's emailed to you when it's ready, and it's also listed in the Exports Manager, where you can download it.
---
## Exporting entry data
URL: https://www.shortstack.com/help/exporting-entry-data/
Category: Managing entries
Plan required: All plans
Last reviewed: 2026-05-19
ShortStack collects and stores all of your entry data. In addition to storing this data, we provide easy export options via .csv files or .zip files for media. This guide covers the steps to export your entries.
### Getting there
To export your entries, you need to access your Entries Manager. There are two ways to get there:
From the Home screen:
1. Click Manage in the main menu.
2. Then select Entries from the dropdown.
From the Campaign Builder:
1. Access your entries via the Form Container Widget (or Entry Display Widget) in the Edit Widgets Panel. Click the inbox icon, which displays the number of entries.
### Export entries
#### Step 1: filter for a specific campaign
If you accessed the Entries Manager from the Campaign Builder, the list is already selected. If not, use the filtering option to select the specific list you want to export.
> Important: If no filter is applied, all entries in your account will be exported, which may take time depending on the volume of stored entries.
#### Step 2: export your entries
1. Once the list is selected, click on the Actions dropdown.
2. Select Export.
3. Choose your export format: .csv file .zip file (for media) Both
4. Click Next.
5. Select whether you want to use an export profile (see details below). If using an export profile, select or create your export profile.
6. Enter the email address where you want to receive the export. Click Export.
#### Step 3: download the file
Once the export is ready, you will receive a notification in ShortStack and an email.
You can download the file(s) in two ways:
1. Click the bell icon in ShortStack, then select "Exported Entries Ready" to start the download.
2. Use the download link provided in the email.
### Export Profiles
When exporting entries, your file may contain numerous columns, including fields you did not use. To export only specific fields, use Export Profiles. Export Profiles are required when exporting a list of 1,000 entries or more.
Learn more about [Exporting Entries with Export Profiles](https://www.shortstack.com/help/exporting-data-using-export-profiles/).
### FAQs
Does ShortStack delete entries after a period of time?
To free up space in our servers, we only remove media assets (.png, .jpeg, .mp4, .pdf, etc.) on a rolling 3-year basis. To ensure you have access to all media files, remember to download the .zip files after your campaign has finished.
Does the media URL in the.csv file still work after 3 years?
No, the URL provided in the.csv file will no longer work with expired entries. We recommend downloading all media assets as a .zip file to ensure you have access to them for as long as you need.
Where can I find the export files?
All export information can be found in the Exports Manager. Here, you can download files, view the remaining download time, and export status.
Learn more about the [Exports Manager](https://www.shortstack.com/help/exports-manager/).
### Related resources
[How to Export Entries (Video)](https://youtu.be/sJ2swokDn-M)
[Exporting Data Using Export Profiles (Help Doc)](https://www.shortstack.com/help/entry-profiles-manager/)
[Exporting Data Using Export Profiles (Help Doc)](https://www.shortstack.com/help/exporting-data-using-export-profiles/)
[Exports Manager (Help Doc)](https://www.shortstack.com/help/exports-manager/)
### FAQs
#### Does ShortStack delete entries after a period of time?
To free up space in our servers, we only remove media assets (.png, .jpeg, .mp4, .pdf, etc.) on a rolling 3-year basis. To ensure you have access to all media files, remember to download the .zip files after your campaign has finished.
#### Does the media URL in the.csv file still work after 3 years?
No, the URL provided in the.csv file will no longer work with expired entries. We recommend downloading all media assets as a .zip file to ensure you have access to them for as long as you need.
#### Where can I find the export files?
All export information can be found in the Exports Manager. Here, you can download files, view the remaining download time, and export status.
Learn more about the [Exports Manager](https://www.shortstack.com/help/exports-manager/).
---
## Exports Manager
URL: https://www.shortstack.com/help/exports-manager/
Category: Account & billing
Plan required: All plans
Last reviewed: 2026-08-13
The Exports Manager shows the status of your exports, the time remaining for files to finish exporting, and lets you download completed exports directly. Exports are displayed with the most recent at the top.
### Getting there
From the Dashboard:
1. Click Manage in the navigation menu.
2. Select Exports from the options.
If Favorited, simply click Exports Manager in the side navigation menu.
> **Note:** Favoriting adds a direct link to the Exports Manager in the navigation menu. To favorite, click the heart icon next to the "Exports" title. Favorites are stored in your browser, so you'll need to re-establish them when using a different browser or computer.
### Exports
#### Overview of information
Once an export has been initiated, its details will appear in the Exports Manager. Each export displays the following information:
- Status: Pending, Running, Completed, or Failed
- Total Entries: The number of entries included in the export
- Download Files: Once ready, click the download button to download the files directly.
- Time Remaining: The estimated time until the export is complete
#### Additional export options
Clicking the three dots at the top right of an export's information pane reveals the following options:
- Download: Download the completed export file directly to your computer.
- Delete: Permanently remove the export from the Exports Manager.
### Working with exports
Select an export by clicking it. To quickly select multiple exports, click and drag your cursor across the screen. Clear your selections by clicking X Clear next to the counter.
#### Deleting exports
To delete selected exports, click Delete, confirm the selection in the pop-up, then click Delete again to permanently remove them.
> **Note:** Deleting exports is permanent, so make sure you no longer need them before completing the deletion.
### How do I export entries?
To export entries, open the list in the Entries Manager (or filter for a specific campaign if you're starting from the Entries Manager directly).
> **Note:** If no filter is applied, all entries in your account will be exported, which may take time depending on the volume of stored entries.
Click the Actions dropdown and select Export. Choose your export format — .csv (entry data), .zip (uploaded media), or both — then click Next. If prompted, select or create an export profile. Enter the email address where you'd like to receive the export, then click Export.
Once the export is ready, you'll receive a notification in ShortStack and an email. To download, click the bell icon in ShortStack and select Exported Entries Ready, or use the download link in the email.
For full exporting instructions: [Exporting Entry Data](https://www.shortstack.com/help/exporting-entry-data/).
### Related resources
[Exporting Entry Data (Help Doc)](https://www.shortstack.com/help/exporting-entry-data/)
[Entries Manager (Help Doc)](https://www.shortstack.com/help/entries-manager/)
[Exporting Data Using Export Profiles (Help Doc)](https://www.shortstack.com/help/exporting-data-using-export-profiles/)
---
## Facebook and Instagram promotion guidelines
URL: https://www.shortstack.com/help/facebook-promotion-guidelines/
Category: Contest rules & compliance
Last reviewed: 2026-10-13
You can run giveaways and contests on Facebook and Instagram if every entrant releases Meta from liability and agrees that Meta doesn't sponsor the promotion. On both, you can't offer entries in exchange for likes, follows or shares, and on Facebook you can't require or reward tagging friends. Asking people to comment on your post is allowed.
These rules come from Meta's [Policies for Pages, Groups and Events](https://www.facebook.com/policies_center/pages_groups_events) (section 7, Promotions), [Instagram's Promotion Guidelines](https://help.instagram.com/179379842258600) and Meta's [spam policy](https://transparency.meta.com/policies/community-standards/spam/), which applies to Facebook, Instagram, Messenger and Threads. Meta can change them, so check those pages before a large promotion. Meta doesn't help run promotions, and you run one at your own risk.
### What every promotion needs
On both Facebook and Instagram, you're responsible for running the promotion lawfully. That means:
- Official rules, and the offer terms and eligibility requirements, such as age and residency.
- Compliance with the law where you run it, including any registration or approval the prize needs.
- A release. Each entrant fully releases Meta (or Instagram) from liability.
- A non-sponsorship statement. Each entrant acknowledges that the promotion isn't sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Meta (or Instagram).
> **Tip:** The [Rules Generator](https://www.shortstack.com/help/rules-generator/) writes official rules you can start from. Long terms don't have to fill your page: put them in a pop-up opened by an [Action Widget](https://www.shortstack.com/help/action-widget/), or in a container that people can show and hide.
### What you can and can't ask entrants to do
| Entry action | Facebook | Instagram |
| Comment on your post | Allowed | Allowed |
| Share or repost the promotion | Not allowed, as a requirement or for extra entries | Not allowed, as a requirement or for extra entries |
| Tag friends | Not allowed, as a requirement or for extra entries | Not restricted, as long as the tags are accurate |
| Tag people who aren't in a photo | Not allowed | Not allowed |
| Like or react to your post | Not allowed, as a requirement or for extra entries | Not allowed, as a requirement or for extra entries |
| Like or follow your Page or account | Not allowed, as a requirement or for extra entries | Not allowed, as a requirement or for extra entries |
Facebook: a promotion "must not require or incentivize participants to share, repost, tag others, or otherwise publicize" it. That covers extra entries too, not only entry requirements.
Instagram: you must not tag content inaccurately or encourage people to, for example by asking them to tag themselves in a photo they aren't in.
Both: Meta's spam policy doesn't allow exchanging anything for engagement, such as likes, shares or follows. That includes giveaways, and Meta's own example is "Anyone that likes my page will be entered to win $500." So likes, follows and shares can't be an entry requirement or earn extra entries on either platform.
Checking follows: Meta's API doesn't let third-party platforms like ShortStack see who follows a Page or an Instagram account; it only gives the total count. [Points for Actions](https://www.shortstack.com/help/points-for-actions/) records that someone clicked through to your Page, not that they followed it.
### Compliant ways to give extra entries
| Option | What it rewards | Plan |
| [Refer-a-Friend](https://www.shortstack.com/help/refer-a-friend/) | A friend entering through the entrant's personal referral link | Build and higher |
| [Points for Actions](https://www.shortstack.com/help/points-for-actions/) | Clicking through to your Page or profile, or watching a video | All plans |
Refer-a-Friend rewards the friend's entry, not the share itself. Points for Actions can't confirm a follow, only the click.
### Running the promotion
- Campaigns can't be published inside a Facebook Page. Publish your campaign as a landing page or embed it on your site, then share the link in your post, Story or bio.
- For comment giveaways, import the comments with the Social Importer. Facebook imports capture each person's Facebook name, user ID, comment and reaction; Instagram imports capture the username and comment. Neither captures an email address, so check any other conditions, such as one comment per person, when you pick the winner.
### FAQs
Can I run a "comment to win" giveaway on Facebook or Instagram?
Yes. Meta's rules don't stop you asking people to comment on your post. Import the comments into ShortStack with the [Social Importer](https://www.shortstack.com/help/how-to-import-comments-and-reactions-from-facebook/) and pick a winner from the list.
Can I ask entrants to tag a friend?
Not on Facebook. Facebook's policy says a promotion must not require or reward tagging others, so tagging can't be a condition of entry or earn extra entries. Instagram's guidelines only ban inaccurate tagging, such as tagging people who aren't in a photo.
Can I require people to like or follow my Page or account?
No, on Facebook or Instagram. Meta's spam policy doesn't allow giveaways that offer a chance to win in exchange for likes, follows or shares. Invite people to follow instead, for example by announcing the winner there.
Can I publish my campaign inside my Facebook Page?
No. Facebook no longer allows campaigns to be published inside a Page. Publish your campaign as a landing page or embed it on your site, then share the link in a post.
### Related resources
[Sweepstakes rules for Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, Snapchat and more](https://www.shortstack.com/help/sweepstakes-rules-for-instagram-facebook-tiktok-snapchat-and-more/)
[How to import comments and reactions from Facebook](https://www.shortstack.com/help/how-to-import-comments-and-reactions-from-facebook/)
[How to import comments from an Instagram post](https://www.shortstack.com/help/how-to-import-comments-from-an-instagram-post/)
[Points for Actions](https://www.shortstack.com/help/points-for-actions/)
[How to use the Rules Generator](https://www.shortstack.com/help/rules-generator/)
[Sweepstakes and contest rules guide](https://www.shortstack.com/help/sweepstakes-and-contest-rules-guide/)
[Running a giveaway? Why "No Purchase Necessary" is necessary (Blog)](https://www.shortstack.com/blog/running-a-giveaway-why-no-purchase-necessary-is-necessary-2)
### FAQs
#### Can I run a "comment to win" giveaway on Facebook or Instagram?
Yes. Meta's rules don't stop you asking people to comment on your post. Import the comments into ShortStack with the [Social Importer](https://www.shortstack.com/help/how-to-import-comments-and-reactions-from-facebook/) and pick a winner from the list.
#### Can I ask entrants to tag a friend?
Not on Facebook. Facebook's policy says a promotion must not require or reward tagging others, so tagging can't be a condition of entry or earn extra entries. Instagram's guidelines only ban inaccurate tagging, such as tagging people who aren't in a photo.
#### Can I require people to like or follow my Page or account?
No, on Facebook or Instagram. Meta's spam policy doesn't allow giveaways that offer a chance to win in exchange for likes, follows or shares. Invite people to follow instead, for example by announcing the winner there.
#### Can I publish my campaign inside my Facebook Page?
No. Facebook no longer allows campaigns to be published inside a Page. Publish your campaign as a landing page or embed it on your site, then share the link in a post.
---
## Field Library
URL: https://www.shortstack.com/help/field-library/
Category: Account & billing
Plan required: All plans
Last reviewed: 2026-08-13
The Field Library holds the custom fields you have built with the Field Widget — text, boolean, list, date, and number types — and shows how many of each you can still create against your plan's limits. You can edit any field's settings here, or permanently archive one you no longer need.
### Getting there
From the Dashboard:
1. Click Manage in the navigation menu.
2. Select Field Library from the options.
If Favorited, simply click Field Library in the side navigation menu.
> Favoriting adds a direct link to the Field Library to the navigation menu. To favorite, click the heart icon next to the "Field Library" title. Favorites are stored in your browser, so you’ll need to re-establish them when using a different browser or computer.
### Active field limits
At the top of the Field Library, you will find a hidden section, Active Field Limits. Click it to open the section to view the number of active (non-archived) fields for each field type. As a best practice, reuse fields when creating forms to prevent reaching limits. If you run out of a specific field type, archive unused fields.
### Field information
Fields are displayed on the right-hand side, with each info pane including:
- Field Name
- Date/Time Created
- Field Type
- Internal Field Name
Click the icon on the right to open the Field Editor for making changes to a selected field.
### Field editor
The Field Editor is divided into three tabs: Details, Default Settings, and Campaigns.
#### Details tab
Here, you can:
- Edit the Field Name.
- Add a Description.
- Specify a Custom Label for Exporting and Webhooks.
- View the Field Type and Internal Field Name.
- Archive the field.
> **Important:** Archiving a field is permanent and can't be undone. Once it's archived, you can't choose it for a new Field Widget. Campaigns that already use the field keep collecting it, and nothing it has collected is lost. Open the Campaigns tab first to see where it's in use.
#### Default settings tab
This tab displays the default settings applied when the field is used in a new Field Widget. Options depend on the field type but may include:
- Layout
- Text
- Validation
- Content
- Error Messages
- Instructions
- Extra CSS Classes
These default settings can be overridden on a per-campaign basis when configuring the Field Widget in your campaign.
#### Campaigns tab
Lists all campaigns currently using the selected field, grouped by campaign (most campaigns will only use a field once). Each shows a publishing-status badge — Published, Unpublished, or Unpublished Changes — along with Created and Updated dates, so you can see at a glance where a field is in use before you archive it. Clicking a campaign name opens it in the Campaign Builder.
### Search
Use the Search field (top-left) to locate fields using a keyword or phrase.
#### Tag
Tags are included on the Max plan. [Compare plans](https://www.shortstack.com/pricing/).
Search for fields by tags attached to them. Results display automatically on the right.
### Filters
Filters are available on the left-hand side to help narrow results. Options include:
- Field Type: Text, Boolean, List, Date, or Number.
- Archived Status
### Sorting
To sort fields, click the button near the field count at the top of the page. Options include:
- Newest
- Oldest
- Name (A–Z)
- Name (Z–A)
### Working with fields
Click and drag your cursor across the screen to quickly select multiple fields. When you select a field, additional options appear in a bar at the top of the screen.
#### Tag
Tags are included on the Max plan. [Compare plans](https://www.shortstack.com/pricing/).
To add tags to selected fields:
1. Click the Tag button.
2. Type tags (comma-separated).
3. Press Enter/Return after each tag and click the blue Save button.
#### Archive
Archived fields stay visible in the Field Library, and campaigns that already use one keep collecting it. When you add a new Field Widget, archived fields aren't offered. To collect the same information in another form, copy a Field Widget that already uses the field: the copy keeps it. Otherwise, create a new field.
> **Important:** Archiving a field is permanent and can't be undone. Check the field's Campaigns tab first, so you know which forms still use it.
To archive a field:
1. Click the Archive button.
2. Type the confirmation prompt.
3. Click the red Archive button to complete the action.
### Related resources
[Reusing Fields From the Field Library (Video)](https://youtu.be/EZAT45zeTT8)
[ShortStack for Teams (Help Doc)](https://www.shortstack.com/help/shortstack-for-teams/)
[Field Widget (Help Doc)](https://www.shortstack.com/help/field-widget/)
[Making Copies of Field Widgets (Help Doc)](https://www.shortstack.com/help/making-copies-of-field-widgets/)
---
## Field Widget
URL: https://www.shortstack.com/help/field-widget/
Category: Widgets
Plan required: All plans
Last reviewed: 2026-02-09
The Field Widget adds input fields to a Form Container in your campaign. Visitors to your live campaign can fill out these fields and use the Submit button to submit their information.
### Overview
If you want to provide entries yourself, you can do so inside the Campaign Builder and use visibility settings to hide the Form Container from the live campaign.
[image: The Add Widgets panel with the Field Widget icon, a form with lines, circled in green.]
### Adding the Field Widget
To add the Field Widget to your campaign:
1. Click the Field Widget icon in the Add Widgets Panel, or
2. Drag the icon into the Edit Widget Panel and into a Form Container Widget.
Note: Attempting to add a Field Widget outside of a Form Container will trigger an error message.
[image: An error dialog headed Action Needed, reading Field widgets must be enclosed inside a form container widget, with buttons to Add Form Container Widget or Close.]
### Widget settings
The setting will automatically pop up when you add a new Field Widget. Otherwise, you can access the settings by clicking on the pencil icon for the Field Widget.
#### Renaming the widget
1. Click the pencil icon in the top-left corner (next to the widget name).
2. Enter a new name. By default, the name will be updated to match the selected field type.
#### CSS ID
The CSS ID (starting with a #) is displayed in the top-right corner of the pop-up.
### Field type
The Field Type section allows you to choose the field type for your form. Field types are categorized into:
- Standard Fields: Can only be used once per list.
- Custom Fields Can be used multiple times per list, are saved to your Field Library, and can be hidden so they don't appear on the live form.
#### Selecting a standard field
1. Click on the desired field type to select it.
2. Configure the field in the Field Settings section.
3. Standard field types that are already in use will no longer be selectable in the same Form Container.
#### Selecting a custom field
1. Choose the field type.
2. (Optional) Check the box to make the field hidden.
3. If you have created a custom field you want to reuse, select it on the right-hand side.
4. Customize the field in the Field Settings section.
5. Save the field to your Field Library for future use or select an existing custom field from your library.
> If you want to collect data that the entrant does not see, you can make custom fields hidden. Hidden fields are hidden from view from the entrant, but you can export the data. This can store information from [Query String Parameters](https://www.shortstack.com/help/advanced-autofilling-form-fields-using-query-string-parameters/), quiz results, or any other information you wish to collect.
##### Duplicate custom fields
You can have the same custom field twice on the same form. When this happens, both fields will be changed as the entrant changes their response.
You can view the custom field ID at the bottom right corner. If you have two fields with the same ID, then one will need to be changed. In the example below, the field ID is custom_text_52.
[image: The lower part of the Field Widget settings, with the Field Library reference outlined in green: the field label How many dogs do you want? above its ID, custom_text_52.]
Learn about [Making Copies of Field Widgets](https://www.shortstack.com/help/making-copies-of-field-widgets/).
### Field settings
The Field Settings section is where you configure most of the details for your field. Settings may vary depending on the field type, but common subsections include:
#### Layout
Choose a layout option if multiple layouts are available for the field type.
#### Text
Assign Labels or Placeholders to your field, if applicable.
#### Validation
Choose if you want the field to be required Always, When visible, or Never required (optional).
If a Field Widget is set to Require Always but is hidden by itself or by a parent container (Starts Hidden), a warning will appear in the Edit Widgets panel. Click the warning icon to automatically adjust the setting to Required when visible.
[image: The Edit Widgets panel with a Phone field marked by a warning icon. A tooltip explains that the field is set to required always but also starts hidden, and to click the icon to change it to required when visible.]
Additionally, when adding a new Field Widget inside a Starts Hidden Container or Form Container Widget, the field's requirement will default to Required when visible to prevent validation errors in hidden fields.
> The Require when visible setting makes a field required only if it's visible to the entrant. If the remains hidden, entrants don't need to complete it. If a hidden field is set to always required, entrants will see an error when submitting the form.
#### Error messages
Add custom messages to display when validation errors occur.
#### Field points
Assign points to the field. Entrants earn these points upon completing the field.
#### Other
Instructions: Add text to display below the field when it is selected.
Extra CSS Classes: Add one or more CSS classes to customize the field's appearance using custom CSS.
Note: Click the expand icon (▸) to open collapsible sections in the Field Settings.
### Visibility
Control when and where the field is visible using the Visibility section. Options include:
- Setting specific dates and times.
- Displaying the field only in the Builder.
- Restricting visibility by country.
Learn more about [Widget Visibility](https://www.shortstack.com/help/widget-visibility/).
### Extras
[Learn about the Main Tag, CSS Classes, and Smart Labels settings here.](https://www.shortstack.com/help/widget-extras/)
### Field Widget styling options
When the Widget is selected, you can customize the styling of the specific widget. Some of the options include changing the input box color, the maximum width of the widget, label font, and widget alignment. You will see the following areas of styling available in the [Style Panel](https://www.shortstack.com/help/getting-started-with-the-style-panel/):
- Labels
- Input Box
- Help Text
- Widget
### Related resources
[How to Build a Form (Video)](https://youtu.be/PU_x-2IIVrs)
[The Best Types of UGC to Collect and Use (Blog)](https://www.shortstack.com/blog/the-best-types-of-user-generated-content-to-collect-and-use-in-2022/)
[Making Copies of Field Widgets (Help Doc)](https://www.shortstack.com/help/making-copies-of-field-widgets/)
[List Field (Help Doc)](https://www.shortstack.com/help/list-field/)
[Field Library (Help Doc)](https://www.shortstack.com/help/field-library/)
[Category Field (Help Doc)](https://www.shortstack.com/help/category-field/)
[Upload Field (Help Doc)](https://www.shortstack.com/help/upload-field/)
---
## Form Container Widget
URL: https://www.shortstack.com/help/form-container-widget/
Category: Widgets
Plan required: All plans
Last reviewed: 2026-10-08
The Form Container Widget, in combination with Field Widgets, is used to display a form in your campaign. Visitors can use the form to submit entries. If you want to submit entries yourself, you can do so inside the Campaign Builder and use visibility settings to hide the form from the live campaign.
### Overview
[image: The Add Widgets panel with the Form Container Widget icon, a form with lines, circled in green.]
### Adding the Form Container Widget
To add the Form Container Widget to your campaign:
1. Click the Form Container icon in the Add Widgets Panel, or
2. Drag the icon into your preview area.
### Widget settings
The widget settings pop-up allows you to customize the Form Container Widget.
#### Renaming the widget
1. Click the pencil icon in the top-left corner (next to the widget name).
2. Type the new name and press Enter.
#### CSS ID
The CSS ID (starting with a #) is displayed in the top-right corner of the pop-up.
#### Customization
Navigate through the menu on the left side to adjust settings. Use the Back and Next buttons to move between sections.
When finished, click the Save and Exit button.
### List
The List section allows you to select or create the list where the form’s entries will be stored.
#### Selecting an existing list
1. Click Choose existing list...
2. In the pop-up, scroll through the lists or use the search bar to find the desired list.
3. Click the list name to select it.
4. To disconnect a selected list, click the X icon next to the list name.
#### Creating a new list
1. Click Create new list.
2. In the pop-up, fill in the following: Name Number of test entries Tags (optional)
3. Click Create to finalize.
### Entry restrictions
Control how often individuals can submit entries using the Entry Restrictions section.
#### Limit repeat entries
1. Choose a restriction method (Email Address or Login) and configure the settings: Set the restriction type (e.g., one entry per email). Add a custom error message for entrants exceeding the limit.
2. To allow multiple entries: Select ...entry every... and specify the time interval (hours or days). OR choose A maximum of... and set a total entry limit per person.
When you restrict by Email Address, Gmail addresses that differ only by dots count as the same address. For example, janedoe@gmail.com and jane.doe@gmail.com share one entry limit.
#### Maximum number of form entries
1. Enable the Maximum Entries Limit checkbox.
2. Specify the Maximum number of entries (e.g., 20 for a giveaway).
3. Add a message in the Entry limit has been reached message field.
> If multiple entries are submitted at the same time, it's possible for your limit to be exceeded by a small number. If this is not acceptable, we recommend configuring Instant Win with the Prize distribution strategy set to All at start.
Note: This limit applies to the total number of entries across all Form Container Widgets linked to the same list.
#### Bot prevention
Available on Scale plan and higher.
Enable Google reCAPTCHA to reduce spam and illegitimate entries:
1. Click the link labeled Configure in Campaign Settings → Security.
2. Click the Choose Profile button.
3. Select an existing profile, or click the Add button to connect a new set of keys.
4. Check the box for Enable Google reCAPTCHA.
5. Use the Sensitivity Level slider to adjust the strictness of the verification.
Learn more about [How to Create Google reCaptcha Keys](https://www.shortstack.com/help/how-to-create-google-recaptcha-keys/).
### Instant Win
Activate Instant Win for your campaign by enabling it in the Instant Win section. Configure Instant Win settings in the pop-up window. For detailed guidance, refer to the [Instant Win Help Doc](https://www.shortstack.com/help/instant-win/).
### Fraud Filter
Use the Fraud Filter to block suspicious entries:
- Submit patterns or filters to detect fraudulent behavior.
- Configure actions for entries meeting these criteria.
> Note: This feature is available starting on the Scale Plan. Refer to the [Fraud Filter Help Doc](https://www.shortstack.com/help/prohibit-fraudulent-and-spam-entries-with-fraud-filter-feature/) for details.
### After submit
Customize what happens after a visitor submits the form:
#### Use Action Widgets
Select Use Action Widget to show results. This is the default option.
#### Use pop-up
Show a confirmation message by selecting Use pop-up to show confirmation...
#### Redirect to another URL
Select Redirect to another URL and enter the URL to forward users after submission.
### Refer-A-friend & sharing
#### Refer-a-Friend
Available on Build plan and higher.
Enable Refer-A-Friend to let entrants earn points for referrals:
1. Check the Enable Refer-A-Friend box.
2. Set Points per referral.
3. Optional: Limit points by enabling Max points per entry.
Entrants can share referral links via autoresponder emails or by enabling sharing in the form widget.
#### Sharing
In the Sharing section, you will find a dropdown menu to select a Share Widget to share entry data. This is useful when sharing entries during voting contests or for refer-a-friend. If you do not want to share entry details, you can leave this dropdown blank.
All sharing settings can be accessed through the Share Widget.
Learn more about the [Share Widget](https://www.shortstack.com/help/share-widget/) and [About Sharing.](https://www.shortstack.com/help/about-sharing/)
### Approvals/alerts
#### Approval settings
Check Automatically approve entries to approve submissions upon receipt.
#### Email alerts
Email Alerts allow you to be notified every time an entry is submitted. Here's how:
1. Add recipient emails in the Email alerts to field.
2. Configure the Email from address and Email subject line.
3. (Optional) Include an approval link in alert emails.
Note: Due to DMARC restrictions, certain email addresses (e.g., @yahoo.com) cannot be used for the From Email Address.
### Advanced
Configure advanced features in this section:
- Form Integrations: Add or manage integrations.
- Image Editor: Enable image editing for submitted images.
- Advanced Points for Actions: Prevent duplicate actions across multiple entries.
- Submit Button: Show or hide the default Submit button.
- Form Values: Allow data to be copied to other forms within the same campaign that share identical fields. By default, this option is enabled.
### Text
Customize form text in the Text section. Modify the provided text fields to suit your campaign.
### Visibility
Control when and where the widget appears using the Visibility section.
Options include:
- Setting specific dates and times for visibility.
- Displaying the widget only in the Builder.
- Limiting visibility to certain countries.
Learn more about [Widget Visibility.](https://www.shortstack.com/help/widget-visibility/)
### Extras
[Learn about the Main Tag, CSS Classes, and Smart Labels settings here.](https://www.shortstack.com/help/widget-extras/)
### Form container styling options
When the Widget is selected, you can customize the styling of the specific widget. Some of the options include changing the background color, the maximum width of the widget, and submit button color. You will see the following areas of styling available in the [Style Panel](https://www.shortstack.com/help/getting-started-with-the-style-panel/):
- Submit Button
- Submit Messages
- Confirmation Pop-Up
- Widget
### Nesting form containers
Although you can add other widgets inside a Form Container for organizational purposes, you should not use another Form Container to do so. Instead, use the Container, Two-Column, or Three-Column Widgets to structure your campaign layout.
Nesting a Form Container inside another Form Container can cause unexpected behavior and may prevent form entries from submitting correctly.
If you accidentally nest Form Containers, an error message will appear to alert you to the issue.
### FAQs
Can I be notified every time someone submits an entry?
Yes! You can enable Email Alerts in the Form Container settings. See Approval/Alerts above.
Can I create a form with conditional logic (if/then)?
Yes, you can create a form with conditional logic. Check out our user flow on [Understanding Conditional Logic](https://www.shortstack.com/help/understanding-conditional-logic/) to see how you can use conditional logic with your form. If you have specific questions, reach out to us in support: support@shortstack.com.
### Related resources
[How to Build a Form (Video)](https://youtu.be/PU_x-2IIVrs)
[Creative Ways to Grow Your Email List (Blog)](https://www.shortstack.com/blog/creative-ways-to-grow-your-email-list/)
[Field Widget (Help Doc)](https://www.shortstack.com/help/field-widget/)
[Form Integrations (Help Doc)](https://www.shortstack.com/help/form-integrations/)
[Share Widget (Help Doc)](https://www.shortstack.com/help/share-widget/)
### FAQs
#### Can I be notified every time someone submits an entry?
Yes! You can enable Email Alerts in the Form Container settings. See Approval/Alerts above.
#### Can I create a form with conditional logic (if/then)?
Yes, you can create a form with conditional logic. Check out our user flow on [Understanding Conditional Logic](https://www.shortstack.com/help/understanding-conditional-logic/) to see how you can use conditional logic with your form. If you have specific questions, reach out to us in support: support@shortstack.com.
---
## Form integrations
URL: https://www.shortstack.com/help/form-integrations/
Category: Managing entries
Plan required: All plans
Last reviewed: 2026-10-08
Use Form Integrations to automatically send form entries to third-party services. Once an integration is enabled, all new entries are instantly submitted to the configured service.
### Overview
> **Note:** Pre-existing entries are not retroactively submitted.
### Getting there
1. In the Campaign Builder, click the Widget Settings icon (gear icon) on your Form Container.
2. Click the Integrations link on the left menu.
3. If you have saved Integration Profiles, check the box next to the profile you want to use.
4. To create a new integration, click the Add (plus) icon next to the desired integration type.
> **Note:** Legacy users may need to migrate old integrations before the Integrations tab becomes available. See Migrating Integrations below.
### Webhook integration
#### What does it Do?
A webhook passes collected data from your ShortStack form to a third-party service. While writing a custom webhook requires coding knowledge, tools like Zapier simplify the setup.
Learn more about [Setting Up a Webhook with Zapier.](https://www.shortstack.com/help/setting-up-a-webhook-with-zapier/)
#### Adding a profile
Click the Add (plus) icon to open the Webhook Profile Details pop-up and configure the following:
- Profile Name: Enter a name to identify the webhook profile.
- Profile Description (Optional): Add a description for internal clarity.
- Webhook URL: Paste the URL generated by your webhook tool (e.g., Zapier).
- Content Type: Select either application/x-www-form-urlencoded or application/json.
- Secret Key (Optional): Add a key for secure integration.
#### Field mappings
Map fields to pass data accurately to the webhook. You can add, remove, or rearrange fields as needed.
1. Click the Edit (pencil) icon next to a field to open the editing window.
2. Select your field map type: Simple Map: Maps one entry field to one output field (most common). Constant Map: Outputs the same constant value for every entry.
3. Select the ShortStack Field. Use the search and filtering functions to narrow results.
4. Enter the output field name in the space provided.
5. Click OK, then click Save to finalize your settings.
#### Adding a webhook token
If your CRM requires a specific token, follow these steps:
1. In the Field Mappings section, click Add One Field.
2. Select Set Constant in the Type dropdown.
3. Paste your token into the Constant Value field.
4. Type WebhookToken into the Output Field Name field.
5. Click OK, then Save.
### Mailchimp integration
#### What does it Do?
Automatically adds entrant details to a selected audience in your Mailchimp account, streamlining your email marketing campaigns.
> **Note:** Your form must include an Email field and a Checkbox field (for opt-ins). Missing these will display warnings during setup.
#### Adding a profile
Click the Add (plus) icon to open the Mailchimp Profile Details pop-up and configure the following:
- Mailchimp API Key: Add your API key (found under Account > Extras > API Keys in Mailchimp).
- Mailchimp Audience: Select the audience where entries will be sent.
- Choose a field for the opt-in checkbox: Select the specific checkbox field used for newsletter opt-ins.
- Send this notice to new subscribers: Select the Mailchimp notice to send to new subscribers.
- Mailchimp Tags (Optional): Map a ShortStack field to Mailchimp tags for better audience segmentation.
##### Contact mode
Use the Contact Mode dropdown to control how entries are sent to your Mailchimp account:
- Create contacts only: Adds new contacts to Mailchimp and skips entrants who already exist.
- Update contacts only: Updates existing Mailchimp contacts and does not add new ones.
- Create or update contacts: Adds new contacts and updates existing ones.
#### Field mappings
Map your ShortStack fields to your Mailchimp fields, following the same mapping steps outlined in the [Webhook section](https://www.shortstack.com/help/form-integrations/#5-adding-a-profile) above.
### HubSpot integration
#### What does it Do?
Automatically sends new form entrants to your HubSpot account as contacts. ShortStack connects to HubSpot using OAuth, so there is no need to copy or paste an API key—you simply log in to HubSpot and authorize the app.
> **Note:** Your form must include an Email field. HubSpot uses the email address to identify each contact, so the Email field is mapped automatically.
#### Adding a profile
Click the Add (plus) icon next to HubSpot to open the HubSpot Profile Details pop-up and configure the following:
- Profile Name: Enter a name to identify the HubSpot profile.
- Profile Description (Optional): Add a description for internal clarity.
- Connect Account: Click Connect Account to open the HubSpot authorization window. Sign in, select the account you want to link, then click Choose Account. Once linked, the profile displays a green Connected status. To unlink the account, click Disconnect Account.
##### Contact mode
Use the Contact Mode dropdown to control how entries are sent to your HubSpot account:
- Create contacts only: Adds new contacts to HubSpot and skips entrants who already exist.
- Update contacts only: Updates existing HubSpot contacts and does not add new ones.
- Create or update contacts: Adds new contacts and updates existing ones.
#### Field mappings
Map your ShortStack fields to your HubSpot contact properties, following the same mapping steps outlined in the Webhook section above. Use the Add One Field button to map additional fields, and the Toggle Display link to show or hide field details.
> **Note:** The Email field is mapped by default and cannot be removed, since HubSpot requires it to identify contacts.
### Klaviyo integration
#### What does it Do?
Automatically creates or updates a profile in your Klaviyo account each time someone submits your ShortStack form. Optionally add entrants to a list and subscribe them to email marketing, SMS marketing, or both. Each of these settings works on its own.
#### Adding a profile
Click the Add (plus) icon to open the Klaviyo Profile Details pop-up and configure the following:
##### General
- Profile Name: Enter a name to identify this integration profile.
- Profile Description (Optional): Add a description for internal clarity.
- Connect Account: Click Connect Account to authenticate with Klaviyo via OAuth. Once connected, the status indicator will update to confirm your account is linked.
- Profile Mode: Controls how Klaviyo profiles are created or updated on each entry submission. Create new profiles only: Adds a new Klaviyo profile for each entrant. If a profile with the same email already exists, it is not modified. Update existing profiles only: Updates a Klaviyo profile when a matching email is found. Entrants without an existing profile are not added. Create and update profiles: Creates a new profile if no match is found, or updates the existing one if there is a match.
- Add to List (Optional): Select a Klaviyo list to add the entrant to. Available after your account is connected. This setting is independent of the Email Marketing Opt-In Field — entrants can be added to a list with or without being subscribed to email marketing.
- Email Marketing Opt-In Field (Optional): Select the ShortStack form field (typically a checkbox) that captures email marketing consent. When an entrant checks this field, they are subscribed to email marketing in Klaviyo. This setting is independent of Add to List.
- SMS Marketing Opt-In Field (Optional): Choose how entrants are subscribed to SMS marketing in Klaviyo: None (default): Entrants aren't subscribed to SMS marketing. A form field: Select the ShortStack form field (typically a checkbox) that captures SMS marketing consent. Same as email: Use the same field you chose for Email Marketing Opt-In Field. One checkbox then subscribes the entrant to both email and SMS marketing. To subscribe entrants to SMS, your form must also collect a phone number, and that phone field must be mapped in Field mappings below.
> **Note:** SMS marketing must be set up in your Klaviyo account before entrants can be subscribed. In Klaviyo, go to Settings → Text Message to set your region, business details, and sending number. If you created your Klaviyo profile in ShortStack before October 8, 2026, edit it to choose an SMS option. Existing profiles default to None.
> **Note:** When authorizing the connection for the first time, you may see a Klaviyo message indicating the app has not been reviewed. This is expected — click through to authorize if you trust the source.
#### Field mappings
Use the Field Mappings section to control how your ShortStack form fields map to Klaviyo profile properties. Unlike other integrations, Klaviyo does not have a fixed set of fields. It uses a small number of built-in properties and allows everything else to be defined dynamically.
- Fields that map to Klaviyo's built-in properties (such as email, first_name, and last_name) are pre-mapped by default using Klaviyo's standard field names.
- If you collect phone numbers, map your phone field to Klaviyo's phone number property. ShortStack converts the number to the format Klaviyo requires.
- Fields marked with a gold star (★) icon will be stored as custom properties in Klaviyo — meaning they aren't pre-defined Klaviyo fields and will be created automatically on first submission.
Follow the same steps outlined in the Webhook section above to add, edit, reorder, or remove field mappings.
### Google maps integration
#### What does it Do?
Automatically suggests and populates address details as entrants type into your form's address field. This integration requires a standard Address 1 field on your form. Entrants must select a suggested address from the dropdown list to auto-fill the remaining fields.
> **Note:** A [Google Maps API key](https://developers.google.com/maps/documentation/embed/get-api-key#:~:text=Go%20to%20the%20Google%20Maps%20Platform%20%3E%20Credentials%20page.&text=On%20the%20Credentials%20page%2C%20click,your%20newly%20created%20API%20key.) is required.
#### Adding a profile
Click the Add (plus) icon to open the Google Map Profile Details pop-up and configure the following:
- Profile Name: Name your Google Maps profile.
- Profile Description (Optional): Add a description for clarity.
- API Key: Paste your Google Maps API key into the space provided.
### Migrating integrations
If you are a legacy user, you may need to migrate your previous integrations into the new version. If applicable, you will see a "This form has legacy integrations" message in the Advanced section of your Form Container Settings.
1. Click the Migrate Integrations button to open the wizard.
2. Review your displayed legacy integrations, then click Continue.
3. Configure your profiles by creating a new one or selecting an existing one, then click Continue.
4. Review the integration profiles.
5. Click Migrate the profiles.
### Troubleshooting integration issues
#### Common causes of integration errors
| Error Type | Description |
| Field Mismatches | The fields in the external service have been changed or renamed. |
| Missing Required Fields | The ShortStack form is failing to collect a field that the external service requires. |
| API/URL Changes | The external service credentials (like API keys) or webhook URLs have changed. |
| Service Downtime | The external service is temporarily down or inaccessible. |
#### Identifying errors
If entries fail to send, you can check the error logs:
1. Go to Lists in the main menu.
2. Click the list name to view your entries.
3. Look for entries marked with a Warning icon. Click the icon to view specific error details.
### Related resources
[How to Start Building an Email List (Blog Post)](https://www.shortstack.com/blog/dont-have-an-email-list-heres-how-to-start-building-one/)
[Securing Webhook Form Integrations (Help Doc)](https://www.shortstack.com/help/securing-webhook-form-integrations/)
[Setting Up a Webhook with Zapier (Help Doc)](https://www.shortstack.com/help/setting-up-a-webhook-with-zapier/)
[Adding Google Maps Address Lookup to a Form (Help Doc)](https://www.shortstack.com/help/adding-google-maps-address-lookup-to-a-form/)
---
## Fortune Wheel template
URL: https://www.shortstack.com/help/fortune-wheel-template/
Category: Building a campaign
Plan required: Scale plan
Last reviewed: 2026-02-17
The Fortune Wheel Template allows entrants to test their luck and win a prize on the wheel. This campaign is a great option for live events, in-store promotions, and as an exit-intent pop-up on your website.
### Overview
You can find the template [here](https://builder.shortstackapp.com/apps?templateId=55947) or preview it [here.](https://m.lndg.page/pG3rsK?embed=1)
This guide will cover template-specific features that are not included in our basic templates. If you need help adding widgets, editing forms, or styling your campaign, check out the [Building Campaigns section of our help docs.](https://www.shortstack.com/help/building-a-campaign/)
### Enable Instant Win
To get started with customizing this campaign, you need to enable Instant Win first.
1. Open the Form Container settings.
2. Click on the Instant Win tab.
3. Click on the text "Instant win is disabled" to enable Instant Win and edit the settings in the pop-up.
4. Enable Distribute Unique Prizes and connect an Advanced Code List (see below).
> For additional Instant Win settings and configurations, visit our [Instant Win Help Doc](https://www.shortstack.com/help/instant-win/).
#### Upload an advanced Code List
The Fortune Wheel Template uses the Advanced Code List, which consists of four columns labeled:
- code
- category
- image_url
- details
You can download the template while attaching your code list to the Instant Win, or you can download it here.
[image: The advanced code list template spreadsheet, with columns for code, category, image_url and details, and two example rows: a Grand prize code and a Consolation code.]
> Note: You do not need to use every column, but all four columns must be present for this template to work correctly.
### Configure template settings
Click the Settings button in the Category Assistant Container to open the template settings.
#### Checklist
The Checklist alerts you to any missing elements that may prevent the template from functioning. A red exclamation mark indicates an issue and a message explaining the error follows.
#### Sections
To edit the appearance of individual wheel sections, click the pencil icon on the right side. To rearrange their order, drag and drop them using the three-line (≡) icon on the left side.
When editing a section, you can customize the following:
- Prize Label
- Text Color
- Background Color - You can set a specific background color for each section or use the Section Color Generator (described below).
- Image
- Background Image - Overrides the background color if used.
Note: The Value field cannot be edited, as it is determined by the code list attached to your campaign.
#### Wheel
##### Wheel appearance
Customize the overall appearance of the wheel with the following settings:
- Wheel Height - The width scales proportionally to the height.
- Divider Color
- Background Image - For a fully customized wheel, upload a background image. This overrides all individual section backgrounds. Use an image of equal width and height to the wheel and center the first prize to the hub. Place subsequent prizes in clockwise order.
- Border Size and Color
##### Hub appearance
Adjust the size and color of the hub, or upload a custom hub image. If using an image, set the hub color to transparent.
##### Section color generator
The Section Color Generator helps you create a visually cohesive color scheme for your wheel. Start by selecting a base color in the Inspiration box, then choose a Color Scheme:
- Default - Evenly spaces hues around the 360° color wheel for a balanced palette.
- Monochromatic - Uses brightness and saturation variations of one hue for a subtle, unified look.
- Analogous - Hues adjacent to your base color for harmonious results.
- Complementary - Pairs opposing hues for strong contrast and visual impact.
- Triadic - Three evenly spaced hues for a dynamic, balanced design.
Adjust lightness and saturation as needed.
Click Use Inspiration to apply the selected color to the wheel sections, or choose Use Random Hue for a randomized color set.
##### Text appearance
Customize how the section text appears:
- Font Size
- Text Offset from Center
- Orientation – Choose Vertical or Horizontal
##### Behavior
Control how the wheel behaves when spun:
- Number of Rotations
- Spin Duration
- Spin Start and Stop – Adjust how fast the wheel starts and stops..
##### Wheel preview
Use the Preview area to see how your wheel looks and functions in real time. Test win and lose scenarios using the dropdown menu and click Preview to simulate the result.
#### Advanced
Most users won’t need to adjust these settings. If you have questions, feel free to contact our support team.
- Synchronize Wheel with Instant Win – Enabled by default.
- Stopping Delay (in seconds)
- Allow One Spin Only – Also enabled by default. You can disable this to allow multiple spins.
- Connected Widgets – The template automatically includes smart labels for the form and wheel container.
### Update winning and losing messages
To update the winning and losing messages, edit the Rich Text Widgets inside the "Win/Lose Container."
Since this template uses the Advanced Code List format, you have access to additional merge codes:
```
{{form_container.response.prize_details}}
{{form_container.response.prize_category}}