Question 1

How to use Simple Form with Bootstrap 5?

Accepted Answer

Run `rails generate simple_form:install --bootstrap` to generate wrappers compatible with Bootstrap 5's form controls. You'll need to include Bootstrap assets separately, as detailed in the installation section.

Question 2

Simple Form vs Rails form helpers: which is better?

Accepted Answer

Simple Form reduces boilerplate by automatically adding labels, hints, and errors, while Rails helpers offer more direct control. Choose Simple Form for faster development with customization; stick with Rails helpers for minimal abstraction.

Question 3

How to create a custom input in Simple Form?

Accepted Answer

Define a class in `app/inputs/` inheriting from `SimpleForm::Inputs::Base`, implement the `input` method, and use it with `as: :custom_type`. The README provides an example with a CurrencyInput.

Question 4

Does Simple Form work with Hotwire or Turbo?

Accepted Answer

Yes, it generates standard HTML forms that can integrate with Hotwire or Turbo, but you may need to handle dynamic updates manually since Simple Form focuses on server-side rendering without built-in JavaScript enhancements.

Question 5

How to handle nested forms with Simple Form?

Accepted Answer

Use `simple_fields_for` within a form, similar to Rails' `fields_for`, to manage nested attributes. The README shows an example with posts in a user form.

Question 6

Can I disable HTML5 validation in Simple Form?

Accepted Answer

Yes, set `SimpleForm.browser_validations = false` in the initializer or add `novalidate: true` to the form HTML. This prevents browser validation while keeping HTML5 input types.

Simple Form

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