Text area
A text area lets users enter longer text over several lines.
When to use
- Text longer than one line, such as a description, a comment or a reason.
- Any answer where the length is open.
When not to use
- A single short value. Use a text field, which shows the answer should be brief.
- Rich text with formatting. Use an editor.
- A value from a known set of answers. Use a select, radios or checkboxes.
Guidance
Do
Size the box to fit the answer you expect, and say if anyone else will read it.
Don't
Do not use one row for an open question. It suggests only a few words are needed, and longer text scrolls out of view.
Content
What to write, and what to leave out.
- Ask a question in the label instead of just saying Notes.
- Say who will read it, when that is not obvious.
- If there is a limit, show it up front, not after people go over it.