Error messages

Your error messages could be the last straw for users to move forward or abort the process in the middle. Use this guide to help users navigate their way and turn their delay into an experience.

Tone profile



Assistive

assistive

Friendly

friendly

Postive

positive




Remember to

  • Provide a solution to users
  • Avoid using technical jargons
  • Put statements in positive form
  • Don't take the humor overboard
  • Avoid using condescending language
  • Avoid using the word ‘error’ in the error message
  • Avoid error summaries with long paragraphs
  • Avoid sounding robotic to the user
  • Inline validation errors

    check_circleHey, that mobile number looks familiar. Want to sign in?
    check_circleSorry! We don't recognize that ID. Please try again.
    check_circleThese passwords look poles apart. Please recheck.
    cancelMobile number already registered please sign in to proceed.
    cancelOrganization Code/ID entered is not valid. Try again.
    cancelPasswords do not match.

    Blocking errors

    check_circleSomethings are not in our hands
    Breathe in... Breathe out... Breathe in... Breathe out... Till the time we fix this issue for you.
    check_circleOh no!
    You have stepped into the most deserted space called 404. Let's get you back home.
    cancel
    Oops! Something went wrong
    Please wait while we are trying to fix the issue.

    cancelError 404
    Page not found!

    Warning errors

    check_circleYou've still got some unfinished goals.
    check_circleYour upload failed!
    Don't worry this is not the last resort.
    cancelThere are some unfinished goals!


    cancelUpload failed!
    Try again, Fail again, Fail better!

    Checklist to remember

  • Be direct but never robotic
  • Be friendly but never cocky
  • Don't take the humor overboard
  • Don't take the humor overboard
  • Avoid technical jargons
  • Sound positive

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