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.