In plain English
It marks a place where the form requires an entry. The information asked for there is needed rather than optional.
In context
Here, it indicates that the form entry has to be completed because the information requested there is required before submission.
- Situation
- Navigating benefits and public-service applications, evidence requests, and decision status
- What it communicates
- marks a form entry that must be completed before submission.
Meaning limits
By itself, the term does not explain why that information is required.
Examples
“On the booking form, the passport number was a mandatory field, but the meal preference could be left blank.”
“Please complete each mandatory field before sending the form.”