Compare values

[ChalkerL]

Hi, I'm trying to compare input values by user with a field that has a list of criteria

Criteria : A positive attitude, tenacious, self-motivation and a flexible approach.

So when user keys in "self-motivation and tenacious" as a input, could i break up the "self-motivation and tenacious" and do a search in the Criteria, which will return true

[modytrane]

How's the user input entered?
To make the search and other text functions work smoothly, you are better off offering a pull-down menu form which the user can select.
If everyone enters their own words, they can mis-spell or use different words with same meaning.
If the entries are from a pull-down menu, your text strings will be consistent and search, compare functons become easier to implement.
modytrane

[ChalkerL]

Initially i had that consideration, but I were to have a drop down for a field that allows user to choose their personal qualities. The list will either be very long or i would need multiple drop downs.

Are there any other way which allows User to describe his personal qualities in a field, and at the same time, checking through if those qualities matches those personal qualities shown below.

Personal qualities:
A positive attitude, tenacious, self-motivation and a flexible approach.
Fully committed to self-development through undertaking a higher degree by research and continuing professional development.

A drop down box is a good consideration though, but i need to encompass those qualities above as well.

[teylyn]

Fully committed to self-development through undertaking a higher degree by research and continuing professional development.

Lol, but, really! Who in their right mind would use these HR terms to describe themselves unless forced to use pre-configured sentences.

"I want to learn and improve my skills, so I'd be interested in taking some classes or do papers to get better at my job."

That's exactly the sentiment of the quote, but not a single match.

[ChalkerL]

I know what you mean, and this is giving me a headache. I'm trying to do an online application form that provides convenience as it will filter out candidates based on the given criteria.

So if i were to change all text field boxes to drop down, will it be weird for an application form?

Should i even have multiple drop down box just for the description of personal qualities?

Thanks for all the feedback so far..

The attached is the form that i have been working on.

[teylyn]

Hmm, I see where you're coming from. Just some thoughts ...

You could offer a few drop down lists to the effect of "Which of these terms best describe you" and let the user choose 3 (or 5, or whatever).

Debra Dalgliesh over at contextures.com has some interesting stuff about data validation and

How to "Select Multiple Items from Excel Data Validation List "

and

"Hide Previously Used Items in Dropdown"

If you're not averse to using some VBA (which she provides), you could use this approach to let people choose multiple items from a pre-defined list of terms or phrases.

Let me know if that helps.

cheers