Pop-ups are also known as dialogs or modals.
Even though dialogs can take many shapes and forms, there are really only two types of dialogs:
- Decision dialogs that ask a question or confirm an action
- Information dialogs that provide an update
Decision dialogs are intended to prevent users from making unintentional mistakes or to seek confirmation when the decision is immediate and important.
For example, use decision situations like:
- Did you really intend to delete or remove this item?
- Are you sure you want to spend this money?
- Are you aware of the possible negative consequences of this action?
- Do we have your permission to do this?
Always ensure you front-load the most important and relevant words in case the message gets cut off. In addition, ensure required actions are clear by using explicit language like, “Tap now to receive your discount code.”
If the notification is required to request user permission, for example, access to their device, inform the user how it will benefit them instead of saying it is important to make the product work better.
In addition, only ask for permission when it is required and not before then.
Information dialogs, as opposed to decision dialogs, are generally a friendly way to inform the user about a complication, a recommended course of action, a marketing invitation, or a promotion.
The container for dialogs is generally a smaller box positioned on top of the current screen. If the dialog container takes over the entire screen as a full page, it’s called an interstitial. Interstitials are used most often for promotional offers.
Before writing UX copy, check with the designer to see if there are character limits determined by the dialog container sizing. It might have a fixed size or it might expand to fit additional text. Knowing ahead whether you need to consider character constraints can save you writing time.
Tips for reducing copy include removing unnecessary titles and explaining any context or complications in the UI itself rather than in the dialog.