Text area
A text area lets users enter long form text which spans over multiple lines.
When to use
- Text that runs to more than one line, such as a description, a comment or a reason.
- Anywhere the length of the answer is genuinely open.
When not to use
- A single short value. A text field says the answer should be brief.
- Rich text with formatting, which needs an editor.
- A value with a known set of answers, which should be a choice.
Guidance
Do
Size the box to the answer you expect, and say if anyone else will read what is written.
Don't
Do not give one row to an open question. The box says a few words are wanted, then scrolls away what is typed.
Content
What to write, and what to leave out.
- Ask the question the text answers, rather than labelling the box Notes.
- Say who will read it, when that is not obvious.
- Give the limit up front if there is one, not after it has been exceeded.