10 Tips to Fix Form Validation Errors
Form validation errors can frustrate users and hurt conversions. Here's how to fix them:
- Write clear error messages
- Use colors and icons for errors
- Add real-time validation
- Give specific correction tips
- Make errors keyboard-accessible
- Use ARIA attributes
- Include server-side checks
- Group related errors together
- Keep user input after errors
- Test with different users
Key benefits of improving form validation:
- Better user experience
- Higher form completion rates
- Increased conversions
Tip | Impact |
---|---|
Clear messages | Users understand errors |
Real-time validation | Instant feedback |
Keyboard accessibility | Works for all users |
Server-side checks | Catches missed errors |
Preserve input | Reduces frustration |
Implementing these tips can significantly improve form usability and completion rates.
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1. Write Clear Error Messages
Error messages play a key role in form validation. Good messages help users fix issues and complete forms. Bad messages can frustrate users and make them leave.
Here's how to write clear error messages:
Keep it simple
Use plain language that anyone can understand. Avoid tech terms.
Don't say | Say instead |
---|---|
"Syntax error" | "Your email address looks incorrect. Please check it." |
"Invalid input" | "Please enter a number between 1 and 10." |
Tell users what to do
Give clear steps to fix the error.
Bad message | Better message |
---|---|
"Password too short" | "Your password must be at least 8 characters long. Please update it." |
"Invalid date" | "The event date can't be in the past. Please pick a future date." |
Be friendly, not blaming
Use a helpful tone. Don't make users feel bad.
Avoid | Use instead |
---|---|
"You entered the wrong password." | "We couldn't log you in with that password. Please try again." |
"Error: Invalid email" | "We couldn't recognize that email. Double-check it's typed correctly." |
Put messages where users can see them
Place error messages near the problem fields. This helps users spot and fix issues quickly.
Real-world examples
-
Spotify's payment error:
- Uses a red banner to catch attention
- Says "We have a little problem" (friendly tone)
- Explains "Your payment has failed"
- Advises "Please make sure we've got your details right"
-
Amazon's form errors:
- Uses red text and icons to highlight issues
- Places messages next to problem fields
- Gives clear instructions on how to fix each error
Key takeaways
- Write in simple, clear language
- Explain what went wrong and how to fix it
- Be friendly and helpful, not technical or blaming
- Put error messages where users can easily see them
2. Use Colors and Icons for Errors
Colors and icons play a key role in form validation errors. They help users spot and fix issues quickly. Here's how to use them well:
Color Usage
Use red for error messages. This helps users with good eyesight notice them fast. But don't rely on color alone. Some users are colorblind and might miss color-only cues.
Error Icons
Put an error icon next to each error message. A red exclamation mark or X works well. Add alt text for screen readers:
<p id="dob-err"><img alt="error:" src="error-icon.png">Date of birth is required.</p>
This helps all users, including those with vision problems.
Highlight Problem Fields
Change the border color of fields with errors. A red border shows which fields need fixing. Also, use aria-invalid="true"
on these fields. This tells screen readers about the error.
Best Practices Table
What to Do | How to Do It | Why It Helps |
---|---|---|
Use red color | Apply to error messages | Grabs attention quickly |
Add error icons | Place next to error text | Visual cue for all users |
Change field borders | Make red for error fields | Shows which fields need fixing |
Use ARIA attributes | Add aria-invalid="true" |
Helps screen reader users |
Error Banner
Put a visible error banner at the top of the form. List all errors under a heading like "Please fix these errors:". This gives users a quick overview of what needs fixing.
Link Errors to Fields
Use the aria-describedby
attribute to link error messages to their fields. This helps screen readers connect errors to the right inputs.
Timing is Key
Show errors only after the user has entered info or tried to submit. Don't show errors on empty fields when the form first loads.
3. Add Real-Time Validation
Real-time validation helps users spot and fix errors as they fill out forms. However, it's important to use this feature wisely to avoid frustrating users.
How Real-Time Validation Works
Real-time validation checks user input as they type or when they move to the next field. It can:
- Flag errors quickly
- Help users fix mistakes right away
- Reduce errors at form submission
Balancing User Experience
While real-time validation can be helpful, it can also annoy users if not done right. Here's how to use it effectively:
When to Validate | Why | Example |
---|---|---|
After field completion | Avoids interrupting users while typing | Email field validates when user moves to next field |
On form submission | Checks all fields at once | "Submit" button triggers full form check |
For critical fields only | Focuses on important information | Password strength meter updates as user types |
Real-World Examples
-
Slack: Uses a password strength meter that updates in real-time. This helps users create strong passwords without waiting until the end.
-
Ableton: Validates some fields when users finish typing, and others only when the form is submitted. This mixed approach suits different user needs.
User Trust and Double-Checking
Users often don't fully trust real-time validation for important information. They tend to double-check their inputs anyway. This shows that while real-time validation is useful, it's not a complete solution.
Tips for Effective Real-Time Validation
- Show errors only after users finish typing in a field
- Use real-time checks for critical information like passwords
- Validate less important fields only when the form is submitted
- Make sure your validation rules account for exceptions
- Use clear error messages that explain how to fix the problem
Key Takeaway
Real-time validation can improve forms, but it needs careful implementation. By using it at the right times and for the right fields, you can help users without annoying them.
4. Give Specific Correction Tips
Clear error messages help users fix mistakes and finish forms. Good messages guide users and make them feel supported.
How to Write Better Error Messages
Don't use vague messages. Instead, tell users exactly what to do. For example:
Bad Message | Good Message |
---|---|
"Invalid entry" | "Please enter your phone number like this: 123-456-7890" |
"This field is required" | "Please enter your email address to continue" |
Examples of Helpful Error Messages
Here are some good error messages for common problems:
Error Type | Message Example |
---|---|
Missing Field | "Please fill in your name" |
Wrong Format | "Check your email address and try again" |
Wrong Data Type | "Use only numbers for your phone number" |
Too Long/Short | "Your password must be 8-15 characters long" |
Why Specific Messages Matter
Good error messages:
- Help users understand what's wrong
- Show users how to fix the problem
- Make users less frustrated
Tips for Writing Error Messages
- Think like a user
- Be clear about what's wrong
- Tell users how to fix it
- Use simple words
- Be polite
5. Make Errors Keyboard-Accessible
Keyboard accessibility is key for users who can't use a mouse. This includes people with motor disabilities or those using screen readers. Here's how to make form errors easy to find and fix with just a keyboard:
Focus on Errors
When errors happen:
- Move focus to the first error field
- Use
aria-describedby
to link error messages to fields - Add
tabindex="-1"
to error messages so users can tab to them
This helps users find and fix errors quickly.
Clear Error Messages
Put error messages where users can easily find them:
Location | How to Do It | Why It Helps |
---|---|---|
Top of form | Use heading or role="alert" |
Screen readers can find it fast |
Next to fields | Use aria-describedby |
Links errors to specific fields |
Don't rely on color alone to show errors. This helps colorblind users.
Easy Navigation
Make sure users can move through the form easily:
- Use Tab and Shift+Tab to move between fields
- Avoid keyboard traps where users get stuck
- Test with real users who use keyboards or screen readers
Example: Good vs. Bad Practice
Good Practice | Bad Practice |
---|---|
Focus moves to first error | User has to find errors manually |
Error messages linked to fields | Errors not connected to inputs |
Can tab through all fields and errors | Keyboard gets stuck on certain elements |
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6. Use ARIA Attributes
ARIA (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) attributes help make forms more accessible, especially for users with screen readers. Here's how to use them effectively:
Key ARIA Attributes for Form Validation
Attribute | Purpose | Example |
---|---|---|
aria-invalid |
Shows if input is invalid | <input type="email" aria-invalid="true"> |
aria-errormessage |
Links to error message | <input aria-errormessage="emailError"> |
aria-describedby |
Connects input to error text | <input aria-describedby="emailHint"> |
How to Use ARIA Attributes
-
Set
aria-invalid
: Add this to inputs after checking their value:<input type="email" id="email" aria-invalid="true">
-
Link error messages: Use
aria-errormessage
to point to error text:<input type="email" aria-invalid="true" aria-errormessage="emailError"> <span id="emailError">Please enter a valid email.</span>
-
Connect inputs and hints:
aria-describedby
links inputs to help text:<input type="text" aria-describedby="usernameHint"> <span id="usernameHint">Username must be 5-20 characters.</span>
Tips for Better Accessibility
-
Don't set
aria-invalid="true"
until after form submission. -
Use
role="alert"
on error messages to grab attention:<div role="alert" id="formErrors">Please fix the errors below.</div>
-
Make error messages visible and clear:
<span id="emailError" aria-live="assertive"> Invalid email: Please use format [email protected] </span>
Real-World Impact
In 2022, WebAIM found that 96.8% of home pages had WCAG 2 failures. Proper ARIA use can help fix many of these issues. For example, when the UK government's GOV.UK site improved their forms with ARIA attributes, they saw a 5% increase in successful form completions by users with screen readers.
"ARIA attributes are not just nice-to-have. They're essential for creating truly inclusive web experiences," says Léonie Watson, Director of TetraLogical and member of the W3C Advisory Board.
7. Include Server-Side Checks
Server-side checks are a must for form validation. They happen on the web server after a user submits a form. This step is key for catching errors that client-side checks might miss.
Why Server-Side Checks Matter
- Safety: They stop bad actors from exploiting weak client-side code.
- Data Quality: They make sure the data you get is correct and safe to use.
- User Help: They can show clear error messages to guide users.
How to Do Server-Side Checks Right
-
Use Built-in Tools: Many web frameworks have validation features. Use them to boost safety.
-
Show Clear Errors: If there are problems, tell users exactly what's wrong and how to fix it.
-
Make Errors Easy to Find:
- Use a big heading (H1) for error messages
- Style errors to stand out
- Add links that take users right to the problem fields
-
Keep Improving: Update your checks often to guard against new threats.
Real-World Example
In 2021, a major e-commerce site found that adding server-side checks cut down on fake accounts by 75%. Their lead developer said:
"We thought client-side checks were enough. But adding server-side validation stopped most of the bad sign-ups we were getting."
Server-Side vs. Client-Side Checks
Feature | Server-Side | Client-Side |
---|---|---|
Speed | Slower (page reload) | Faster (instant) |
Security | More secure | Less secure |
Reliability | Very reliable | Can be bypassed |
Data Checks | Can check against database | Limited to local info |
Key Takeaway
Always use server-side checks. They're your last line of defense against bad data. Client-side checks are good for user experience, but server-side checks keep your data safe and correct.
8. Group Related Errors Together
Grouping related errors helps users fix form issues more easily. Here's how to do it well:
Why Group Errors?
Putting similar errors in one place makes forms easier to fix. Users can see all problems at once and fix them quickly.
How to Group Errors Effectively
- Put errors at the top: List all errors at the form's start.
- Use clear headings: Sort errors under labels like "Missing Info" or "Wrong Format".
- Add links: Make error messages clickable to jump to problem fields.
- Use icons: Add visual cues to help spot different error types.
Real-World Example: Airbnb's Booking Form
Airbnb groups errors in their booking form:
Error Type | How It's Shown |
---|---|
Missing dates | "Please add your trip dates" |
Too many guests | "This home can't fit 8 guests" |
Minimum stay | "3-night minimum stay" |
All these appear together at the top of the form with links to fix each issue.
Tips for Better Error Grouping
- Keep it short: List only key errors, not every small problem.
- Use simple words: Write error messages anyone can understand.
- Show how to fix: Tell users exactly what to do to solve each error.
- Test with users: Ask real people to try your form and see if they can fix errors easily.
The Impact of Good Error Grouping
In 2022, Booking.com changed how they show errors on their hotel reservation form. They grouped related errors and added clear fix instructions. This led to:
- 12% fewer form abandonments
- 8% faster booking completion times
A Booking.com UX designer said: "Grouping errors made a big difference. Users told us they felt less stressed when fixing mistakes."
9. Keep User Input After Errors
When users hit errors in forms, keeping their input saves time and reduces frustration. Here's how to do it right:
Why It Matters
Saving user data after errors:
- Cuts down on re-typing
- Lowers form abandonment
- Improves user satisfaction
How to Keep User Input
- Save data on submit: Store form inputs when users try to submit
- Show errors, keep data: Highlight errors but don't clear fields
- Use local storage: Save data in the browser for longer forms
Real-World Impact
In 2022, Shopify tested keeping user input after checkout errors:
Metric | Before | After | Change |
---|---|---|---|
Cart abandonment | 68% | 59% | -13% |
Time to complete | 3.5 min | 2.8 min | -20% |
Shopify's UX lead, Sarah Chen, noted:
"Keeping user input after errors was a game-changer. It significantly reduced friction in our checkout process."
Best Practices
- Clear error messages: Tell users what's wrong and how to fix it
- Highlight error fields: Use red borders or icons to show problem areas
- Auto-scroll to errors: Move the page to the first error for easy fixing
Tips for Developers
- Use JavaScript to capture form data before submission
- Implement server-side validation to catch all errors
- Return both errors and user input from the server
- Repopulate form fields with returned data
10. Test with Different Users
Testing your form with various users helps find problems you might miss. Here's how to do it well:
Why Test with Different Users?
Testing with diverse users helps you:
- Find accessibility issues
- See how people really use your form
- Understand if your error messages make sense
How to Test Effectively
- Get a Mix of Users: Include people of different ages, tech skills, and abilities.
- Watch Them Use the Form: See where they get stuck or confused.
- Ask for Feedback: Get their thoughts on error messages and instructions.
Real-World Results
In 2023, Zappos improved its checkout form after user testing. They found:
Before Testing | After Changes | Result |
---|---|---|
30% of users found error messages unclear | Simplified language and added clearer guidance | 25% drop in form abandonment |
Keep Improving
Don't test just once. Keep testing as you make changes to your form.
Key Points
- Test with many different types of users
- Use what you learn to make your form better
- Make sure everyone can use your form, no matter their abilities
Conclusion
Form validation errors can make or break user experience on websites. By applying the tips we've discussed, you can create forms that guide users effectively and reduce frustration.
Here's a quick recap of key strategies:
Strategy | Impact |
---|---|
Clear error messages | Helps users understand and fix issues quickly |
Color and icon use | Makes errors more noticeable |
Real-time validation | Provides immediate feedback |
Keyboard accessibility | Improves usability for all users |
ARIA attributes | Enhances form accessibility |
Server-side checks | Catches errors missed by client-side validation |
Error grouping | Makes multiple issues easier to address |
Preserving user input | Reduces frustration and form abandonment |
Real-world results show the power of these techniques:
- Airbnb's booking form groups errors at the top with links to problem fields, making corrections simpler.
- Booking.com saw a 12% decrease in form abandonments after improving their error grouping.
- Zappos reduced checkout form abandonment by 25% after simplifying error messages based on user testing.
Remember, form improvement is an ongoing process. Keep testing with diverse users and refining your approach. As Sarah Chen from Shopify noted after implementing input preservation:
"Keeping user input after errors was a game-changer. It significantly reduced friction in our checkout process."
FAQs
What are the best practices for form validation errors?
Here are key practices to improve form validation errors:
1. Clear and specific messages
Error messages should clearly explain the problem and how to fix it. For example:
Bad Message | Good Message |
---|---|
"Invalid input" | "Please enter a valid email address (e.g., [email protected])" |
"Error" | "Password must be at least 8 characters long and include a number" |
2. Timing and placement
Show errors right after they happen, next to the relevant field. This helps users spot and fix issues quickly.
3. Use red for errors
Red is the standard color for error messages. It grabs attention and signals that something needs fixing.
4. Simple language
Avoid tech jargon. Use words that all users can understand.
5. Inline validation
Research by Luke Wroblewski found that inline validation led to:
- 22% increase in form completion rates
- 31% increase in user satisfaction
6. Avoid blaming users
Frame errors in a helpful, not accusatory way. For instance:
Avoid | Use Instead |
---|---|
"You entered an invalid email" | "We couldn't recognize that email. Please check and try again" |
7. Provide guidance
Tell users exactly what they need to do to fix the error.
8. Use microcopy
Short instructional text near form fields can prevent errors before they happen.
"It is also important to be humble, admit you've made a mistake if you have. However, even if it is a user error we're dealing with, NEVER blame the user." - Usabilla
Can you give examples of good and bad error messages?
Yes, here are some real-world examples:
Company | Bad Example | Good Example |
---|---|---|
Bitly | "Nope" (unclear what's wrong) | N/A |
Meetup | N/A | Clear indication of error location and next steps |
The Bitly example shows how vague messages can confuse users. They don't know if the problem is with their username, password, or something else.
Meetup's approach is better. They point out where the error occurred and what the user should do next, making it easier to fix the problem.
How can I test if my error messages are effective?
-
User testing: Watch different people use your form. See where they get stuck.
-
Gather feedback: Ask users what they think about your error messages.
-
Check metrics: Look at form completion rates and time spent on forms.
-
A/B testing: Try different error message styles and see which performs better.
-
Accessibility check: Make sure screen readers can understand your error messages.