Method to input content in a structured manner with real-time assistance and validation

A user-defined, structured input which identifies a column in a database and includes an active input associated with the column is received via a UI. A format-related, context-sensitive rule which applies to the active input is determined including by determining an expected format for the active input based at least in part on the format of the column in the database. Guidance associated with satisfying the rule is provided in real time via the UI. This includes displaying format assistance associated with the rule (by identifying the expected format and/or automatically configuring the UI so that the active input has a format which matches the expected format) and/or displaying format validation associated with the rule, including by indicating whether the format of the active input matches the expected format.