Radio
A radio lets users select only one option from a set of choices.
When to use
- One choice from two to about five options, where seeing all of them matters.
- Options people need to compare.
- A choice with a sensible default. Start with it selected.
When not to use
- More than about five options. Use a select.
- Choosing more than one option. Use checkboxes.
- A single yes or no. Use a checkbox or a toggle.
- A choice that takes effect immediately. That works more like a setting.
Guidance
Do
Write the options the same way, include an option to do nothing, and start with one selected.
Don't
Do not mix a single word with a long sentence, and do not leave every option unselected. People cannot compare the options, and there is no default.
Content
What to write, and what to leave out.
- Keep the options similar in form and length, so they read as one set.
- Cover every choice, including doing nothing, so people are not forced into one they do not want.
- Start with one selected. If nothing is selected, people have to guess what happens if they skip it.