User Interface Terminology

Here’s how to refer to some common user interface elements:

 

  • Drop-down list: Select
  • Check box: Select/Clear
  • Tab: Select
  • Text box: Type
  • When referring to an expandable area, write 'expand', for example, Expand System Configuration > System Administration and click User Management.
  • Button: Click (Do not say Click the Power On button, say Click Power On).
  • However, if the UI has a mobile app also, you should use 'Select' rather than 'click'.
  • Icons: Use the name of the hover text – bold and capitalize it as per the hover text. Do not add anything extra such as X, pencil or cog.