Select
A select lets users choose one or more options from a list.
When to use
- One choice from a known set of about five or more.
- A set of options too long to show as radios without taking over the form.
- Options people will recognise and do not need to compare.
When not to use
- Two or three options. Radios are clearer, because people can see every option.
- Options people need to compare. A select hides every option except the chosen one.
- More than one answer. Use checkboxes.
- A very long list. Use a search field with suggestions.
Guidance
Do
Use the label to name the value and the placeholder to say what to do.
Don't
Do not leave out the label, and do not just say Required. People cannot tell which field is wrong or what to enter.
Content
What to write, and what to leave out.
- Label with the value. Queue, not Select a queue.
- The placeholder is the instruction. Choose a queue.
- Order the options so people can find the one they want. Alphabetical is better than the order they were added in.
- Keep option labels short and consistent.