Get to the point
Modals interrupt the userâs flow, so get straight to the point.
Summarise the situation in the heading and keep descriptions concise â include only what users need to act now.
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Keep the tone neutral
Assume that users are competent adults. Use calm, factual language that focuses on the decision at hand.
Avoid warnings, emotional cues, or anything that could make users second-guess their decision.
Inspire confidence through clarity, not caution.
Where possible, make destructive actions reversible to avoid constantly asking âAre you sureâŚ?â via modals.
Discard unsaved changes?
Are you sure you want to exit without saving changes?
Donât push critical information
Modals disappear once dismissed. Avoid placing important details or instructions users may need later.
Never use pop-up modals purely for information â there are better ways to communicate without blocking the screen.
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Facilitate decisions
Every modal should have a distinct primary action that aligns with user goals.
Avoid non-specific labels like Confirm and steer clear of double negatives in button groups (e.g. Cancel / Go Back).
Use clear actionâobject phrasing such as Delete file or Discard changes so users know exactly what will happen.