Error Messages
Error messages can fall into one of two types:
-
Field validation errors: information in a form field is not formatted correctly or is missing.
-
System errors: the application is having a problem.
Both types of error message should follow the same general guidance.
Say What Happened
Clearly and concisely tell the user exactly what happened.
For example:
The system couldn't create the user <USER_NAME>.
An error occurred when attempting to save <ITEM_NAME>.
Say How to Fix It
Tell the user exactly what they can do to fix what happened, or otherwise move on from the error.
For example:
Please try to create the user again, or contact support if the issue continues.
Please try again.
Use "please" if you’re asking the user to do something that inconveniences them. Try to reword the error message to avoid "please."
For example, An unexpected error has occurred. Please reupload your file and try again.
or An unexpected error has occurred. Reupload your file and try again.
For very generic error messages, where we are not 100% sure what the user should do to resolve, Please try again
is fine.
Don’t use "thanks" or "thank you."
Avoid using "sorry".