Error Messages That Guide, Not Confuse.pdf

Error message disruptions can have several significant impacts on users:

1. Increased Task Completion Time: Users need 3-27% more time to complete tasks when interrupted by error messages.
2. Higher Error Rates: Users commit twice the number of errors across tasks when disrupted by error messages.
3. Increased Anxiety: Users experience twice the increase in anxiety compared to tasks presented without interruptions.
4. Memory Issues: Disruptions can lead to users forgetting the task's context (45%) and forgetting to return to the original task (25%).

To minimize disruption, error messages should be designed with the following best practices in mind:

1. Concise Messaging: Use short sentences (8 words or less) to ensure the message is quickly understood.
2. Clear and Specific: Clearly state what happened and why it happened, avoiding vague or generic messages.
3. Actionable Advice: Provide specific steps users can take to resolve the issue.
4. Positive Tone: Use a friendly and reassuring tone, avoiding negative or alarming language.
5. Visibility: Place error messages near the relevant input field and ensure they are easily noticeable.
6. Avoid Blame: Do not blame the user for the error; instead, focus on how to fix it.
7. Consistent Messaging: Ensure consistency in error messages across the system to avoid confusion.
8. Accessible Design: Complement error messages with icons and ensure they are accessible to users with disabilities.
9. Non-Intrusive: Avoid lengthy messages that block large areas of content and ensure they do not disappear automatically before the user can read them.
10. Provide a Way Out: Always offer a way for users to exit the error state and continue their task.