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Thursday, August 15, 2024

10 Tips to Fix Form Validation Errors

Form validation errors can frustrate users and hurt conversions. Here's how to fix them:

  1. Write clear error messages
  2. Use colors and icons for errors
  3. Add real-time validation
  4. Give specific correction tips
  5. Make errors keyboard-accessible
  6. Use ARIA attributes
  7. Include server-side checks
  8. Group related errors together
  9. Keep user input after errors
  10. 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.

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

  1. 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"
  2. 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.

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

  1. Slack: Uses a password strength meter that updates in real-time. This helps users create strong passwords without waiting until the end.

  2. 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

  1. Show errors only after users finish typing in a field
  2. Use real-time checks for critical information like passwords
  3. Validate less important fields only when the form is submitted
  4. Make sure your validation rules account for exceptions
  5. 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

  1. Think like a user
  2. Be clear about what's wrong
  3. Tell users how to fix it
  4. Use simple words
  5. 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:

  1. Move focus to the first error field
  2. Use aria-describedby to link error messages to fields
  3. 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

  1. Set aria-invalid: Add this to inputs after checking their value:

    <input type="email" id="email" aria-invalid="true">
    
  2. 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>
    
  3. 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

  1. Safety: They stop bad actors from exploiting weak client-side code.
  2. Data Quality: They make sure the data you get is correct and safe to use.
  3. User Help: They can show clear error messages to guide users.

How to Do Server-Side Checks Right

  1. Use Built-in Tools: Many web frameworks have validation features. Use them to boost safety.

  2. Show Clear Errors: If there are problems, tell users exactly what's wrong and how to fix it.

  3. 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
  4. 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.

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

  1. Put errors at the top: List all errors at the form's start.
  2. Use clear headings: Sort errors under labels like "Missing Info" or "Wrong Format".
  3. Add links: Make error messages clickable to jump to problem fields.
  4. Use icons: Add visual cues to help spot different error types.

Real-World Example: Airbnb's Booking Form

Airbnb

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

  1. Keep it short: List only key errors, not every small problem.
  2. Use simple words: Write error messages anyone can understand.
  3. Show how to fix: Tell users exactly what to do to solve each error.
  4. 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

  1. Save data on submit: Store form inputs when users try to submit
  2. Show errors, keep data: Highlight errors but don't clear fields
  3. 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

  1. Use JavaScript to capture form data before submission
  2. Implement server-side validation to catch all errors
  3. Return both errors and user input from the server
  4. 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

  1. Get a Mix of Users: Include people of different ages, tech skills, and abilities.
  2. Watch Them Use the Form: See where they get stuck or confused.
  3. 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?

  1. User testing: Watch different people use your form. See where they get stuck.

  2. Gather feedback: Ask users what they think about your error messages.

  3. Check metrics: Look at form completion rates and time spent on forms.

  4. A/B testing: Try different error message styles and see which performs better.

  5. Accessibility check: Make sure screen readers can understand your error messages.