Placeholder Text

Sometimes, we can use the space in an empty text box or field to show users what they should write there. This may be referred to as placeholder text or hint text. For example, in a Search text box, we might put “Search employees.” Write this text in sentence case (first letter of the phrase capitalized, no period) and keep it as short as possible.

Do
  • Search candidates
Don’t
  • Search Candidates

When placeholder text is used in a prompt or text box next to a field label, make sure the field label text and the placeholder text are either both singular or both plural.

Do
  • Field label: File Type
    Placeholder text: Choose one or more
Don’t
  • Field label: Plan Type
    Placeholder text: Choose some options

See also: Instructional Text

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