>> i need some idea as to how i can print a small checkbox type box on a hard copy (through VFP) alongwith the check mark/sign (if needed). <<

Pull up the character map that come with windows (in win2k you can get to it thru start -> programs -> accessories -> system tools). Set the font to wing dings and select the check box. Copy it to the clip board and paste it into the report expression dialog at the appropriate place in your IIF() statement. set the font for the object to Wing Dings and you are done.

Marcia