Error messages
A good error message gives a way forward
- Say what went wrong.
- Say how to fix it.
- Use plain language and avoid blame, codes, and vague apologies.
Weak versus strong
Generic
Weak
Invalid input.
Strong
Enter a year after 1900.
Technical
Weak
Error 422.
Strong
Enter an email address in the format name@example.com.
Blaming
Weak
You uploaded an incorrect file.
Strong
The file must be smaller than 10 MB.