When users enter an incorrect email while signing in, they need clear and immediate feedback to correct their mistake. This project focuses on improving the email error message to be concise, actionable, and user-friendly while reducing frustration. I will present drafts of the UX copy, rationales, and a final deliverable.
Introduction
When users enter an incorrect email while signing in, they need clear and immediate feedback to correct their mistake. This project focuses on improving the email error message to be concise, actionable, and user-friendly while reducing frustration.
The problem
The original message had a few key issues:
❌ Lack of specificity – It wasn't clear whether the issue was the email, the password, or both.
❌ Unnecessary phrasing – "It appears" adds cognitive load without adding value.
❌ Missed opportunity for clarity – The message could more directly guide the user to check their email.
❌ Potential frustration – Users may retype both fields instead of just correcting the email.
Before (original copy)
Message:
"It appears the email or password you have entered is incorrect."
The solution
To enhance clarity and usability, I revised the message to be shorter, clearer, and more direct:
After (revised copy)
“That email doesn’t match an account.”
Why this works:
✅ More precise – It clearly states that the issue is the email, not the password.
✅ More conversational – "Doesn’t match an account" feels natural and user-friendly.
✅ Faster to read – At 40 characters, it delivers information instantly.
The outcome
This refined message improves the user experience by reducing confusion and helping users correct their email faster. It follows best practices in UX writing, ensuring feedback is clear, concise, and actionable.
