Download - Error messages
Error Messages
Don't Accuse the User
Your user didn't commit murder, don't act like they did.
If it's anyone's fault, it's yours
Your user didn't commit murder, don't act like they did.
Speak the user's language
Your user didn't commit murder, don't act like they did.
Speak the user's language
Your user didn't commit murder, don't act like they did.
Identify the specific problem
Your user didn't commit murder, don't act like they did.
If possible, fix the problem
Your user didn't commit murder, don't act like they did.
If possible, fix the problem
Your user didn't commit murder, don't act like they did.
Don't just turn text red
Your user didn't commit murder, don't act like they did.
Give clear instructions
Your user didn't commit murder, don't act like they did.
Let them know you take it seriously
Your user didn't commit murder, don't act like they did.
Further Reading
10 Tips on Writing Hero-worthy Error Messages Treehouse http://blog.teamtreehouse.com/10-tips-on-writing-hero-worthy-error-messages
Avoid Being Embarrassed by Your Error Messages, UXMattershttp://www.uxmatters.com/mt/archives/2010/08/avoid-being-embarrassed-by-your-error-messages.php
A More Useful 404, A List Aparthttp://alistapart.com/article/amoreuseful404
Non-Fatal Errors: Creating Usable, Effective Error Messages, Writers UAhttp://www.writersua.com/articles/message/index.html
Your user didn't commit murder, don't act like they did.