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Helper / info text

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Helper / info text gives users the extra context or instructions they need to complete input fields correctly. Unlike placeholders, they stay visible throughout the interaction, so critical guidance is not lost when a user starts typing.

Use helper / info text to add constraints.

UI example showing a field label Password* with the helper text Minimum 8 characters, letters and numbers only.

  • Field label: Password
    Helper text: Minimum 8 characters, letters and numbers only
  • Field label: Upload files
    Helper text: Supported formats: PDF, DOCX, XLSX (max 10 MB)
  • Field label: Phone number
    Helper text: Include country code, e.g. +49 30 1234567
  • Field label: Password
    Helper text: Pick a password.
  • Field label: Upload files
    Helper text: Only upload supported files.
  • Field label: Phone number
    Helper text: Type your phone number here.

Add helper text to build trust and improve the chances of a successful input field completion.

  • Field label: Create password
    Helper text: Minimum 8 characters, 1 uppercase letter (A-Z), 1 special character (!@#$%^&*)
  • Field label: Device name
    Helper text: Maximum 50 characters
  • Field label: Max threshold
    Helper text: Use decimal point for precision (e.g. 15.5).

Use clear helper texts, instead of placeholders, in high-friction and error-prone fields requiring numbers and specific formats.

UI example showing a field label Date with the helper text saying Format: YYYY/MM/DD.

  • Format: YYYY/MM/DD
  • Enter a value between 1 and 9999.
  • Enter a future date.

Dos and Don'ts​

  • Do add helper text to high-risk and error-prone fields
  • Do use tooltips instead if more detailed information is needed
  • Don't use the same text label wording as helper text
  • Don't use helper text when there are extensive requirements, instead use a tooltip