Introduction
Ever struggled to fill out an online form and almost tossed your computer out the window in frustration? You’re not alone. User-friendly forms aren’t just about aesthetics. They play a crucial role in capturing important data and enhancing user satisfaction.
Let’s dive into what this article will cover. We’ll explore ten best practices for designing forms that are easy to use. Whether you’re creating a contact form, a signup form, or an order form, these tips will make sure your users have a smooth experience.
1. Keep It Simple
Limit the number of fields
Nobody wants to fill out their life story just to enter a competition. Stick to the essentials. Ask for what you need and nothing more.
Use straightforward language
Avoid jargon. Speak your users’ language. If your form sounds like a legal document, rethink it.
Avoid unnecessary complexity
Forget about adding extra steps or complex dropdowns. Users should be able to complete the form without scratching their heads.
2. Logical Field Arrangement
Group related fields
Imagine you’re filling out a job application. All work experiences together, all education details together, right? Do the same with your form fields.
Use a clear flow from one section to the next
The user should feel like they’re gliding through the form. No erratic jumps from birthdate to email to address.
Prioritise frequently used fields
Put the most used fields right where they’re easy to find. That saves time and reduces frustration.
3. Use Clear Labels
Ensure labels are descriptive and concise
A "Full Name" field should say "Full Name," not just "Name." Leave no room for interpretation but keep it short and sweet.
Place labels above or beside fields for clarity
Above is often better but go with what fits best within your design. Just make sure it’s obvious which label goes with which input.
Consider using tooltip hints for assistance
A little question mark that users can hover over if they’re confused? Genius. Provide hints without cluttering the field.
4. Provide Real-Time Validation
Show users if their input is valid immediately
Don’t wait until they hit submit to tell them they missed something. Instant validation for the win.
Highlight errors clearly
A subtle red border or a small error message works. Make it obvious but not overwhelming.
Offer suggestions for correction
Did they miss the “@” in their email? Suggest what they might have meant. Spoon-feeding can prevent errors.
5. Make It Mobile-Friendly
Ensure forms work well on all devices
Test on mobile, tablet, and desktop. A form should look tight and be fully functional everywhere.
Use responsive design principles
Make elements resize gracefully. Text should be readable without zooming in.
Test forms on different screen sizes
Simulators help, but nothing beats holding your phone and seeing your form’s performance in the wild.
6. Use Progress Indicators
Provide visual cues for multi-step forms
Bars, breadcrumbs, animated icons. Whatever it is, users like knowing where they are in the process.
Show users how far along they are
“Step 3 of 4” creates a sense of achievement and transparency.
Include options to go back and edit previous steps
People make mistakes. Let them correct without starting over.
7. Limit Input Types
Use dropdowns for predefined choices
Dropdowns streamline the process. They’re especially good for choosing states or countries.
Incorporate checkboxes or radio buttons for selections
Checkboxes and radio buttons clarify choices. They make selection easy and cut down on typographical errors.
Minimise the use of free-text fields
The more free-text fields, the higher the chance of inconsistencies. Keep things clean with predefined options.
8. Ensure Accessibility
Follow WCAG guidelines for accessible design
Accessibility isn’t optional. Make sure everyone, regardless of ability, can use your forms.
Use alt text for images
A simple descriptor can make a world of difference for visually impaired users.
Ensure keyboard navigation is possible
Not everyone uses a mouse. Make sure your form is navigable using just a keyboard.
9. Add a Clear Call to Action
Use a prominent submit button
Big, bold, and bright. The submit button should scream, “Click me!”
Use action-oriented language on buttons
"Submit" is fine, but something like "Join Now" or "Get Started" adds a bit more flair.
Consider placement and colour for visibility
The button should stand out. Consider its placement and make sure it contrasts well with the background.
10. Test and Optimise
Conduct user testing for feedback
Find out from actual users what works and what doesn’t. Then tweak accordingly.
Analyse form completion rates
High drop-off rates at a particular field? That’s a red flag.
Make iterative improvements based on data
Always improving, never settling. Use the feedback to make continuous improvements.
Conclusion
We’ve covered a lot, haven’t we? From keeping things simple to meticulous testing, these best practices are your golden rules for creating user-friendly online forms.
Implement these tips to elevate your users’ experience.
And if you’re looking for a tool to help you design these forms without the headache, give MakeForm a try.
You’ll thank me later.
FAQs
Why is form simplicity important?
Simpler forms increase completion rates. Users don’t feel overwhelmed, and you get the data you need more efficiently.
How can I ensure my form is mobile-friendly?
Use responsive design principles. Test your forms on different devices and screen sizes to ensure they work seamlessly.
What is real-time validation?
Real-time validation checks user inputs as they fill out the form, ensuring errors are flagged immediately, improving accuracy and user experience.