UX Writing Templates

Craft clear, consistent, and conversational copy for your digital products

Good UX writing guides users, reduces friction, and builds trust. Use these templates and best practices to create copy that enhances your user experience.

Error Message Templates

Error messages should be clear, helpful, and human. They should explain what went wrong and how to fix it without blaming the user.

Form Validation

Input Validation Errors

For form fields that don't meet requirements

❌ Please enter a valid email.

✅ Enter an email address in the format name@example.com

Why it works: The improved message explains the expected format rather than just stating something is invalid.

System Errors

Connection Errors

When the system can't complete an action

❌ Error 500: Internal server error occurred.

✅ We're having trouble connecting right now. Please try again in a few minutes or contact support if the problem persists.

Why it works: The improved message acknowledges the issue, offers a solution, and provides an alternative if needed.

Authentication

When users have trouble signing in

❌ Invalid username or password.

✅ We couldn't sign you in with those details. Please check your email and password and try again, or reset your password.

Why it works: The improved message is specific about what might be wrong and offers a solution (password reset).

Permissions

Access Denied Errors

When users don't have permission

❌ Access denied. You don't have permission.

✅ You need additional permissions to access this page. Contact your administrator to request access.

Why it works: The improved message explains why access is denied and provides a clear next step.

Error Message Best Practices

Be specific about what went wrong
Offer a solution or next step
Use plain, human language (avoid technical jargon)
Don't blame the user
Include error codes only if they're helpful for support
Consider the user's emotional state when encountering errors

UX Writing Principles

Great UX writing follows these core principles to create clear, helpful, and human-centered experiences.

Be Clear

Use simple, direct language that users can understand immediately. Avoid jargon, technical terms, and ambiguity. If a child couldn't understand it, rewrite it.

Be Conversational

Write as if you're speaking to a friend. Use contractions, active voice, and a friendly tone. Read your copy aloud to test if it sounds natural.

Be Helpful

Focus on solving the user's problem. Anticipate questions and provide answers. Guide users toward success rather than just pointing out errors.

Be Concise

Respect users' time by being brief. Cut unnecessary words. If you can say it in fewer words without losing meaning, do so.

Be Consistent

Use the same terms for the same concepts throughout your product. Create a content style guide to maintain consistency across teams and features.

Be Inclusive

Write for all users regardless of background, ability, or context. Avoid assumptions about gender, culture, or technical knowledge. Use inclusive language.

UX Writing Resources

Improve your UX writing skills with these helpful resources.

Style Guides

Examples of excellent content style guides

Books