Error Handling & Recovery

Overview

Errors are inevitable. The difference between a frustrating product and a caring one is how you handle them. This skill teaches you to design error states that guide users to resolution rather than leaving them stranded.

Core Philosophy: Never Blame the User

The first principle of error design is never blame the user. Errors are opportunities to help, not to criticize.

Bad Error Messages:

• "Invalid input"
• "Error 404"
• "Something went wrong"

Good Error Messages:

• "Please enter a valid email address (e.g., user@example.com)"
• "We couldn't find that page. Try searching instead."
• "Your connection was lost. We saved your work. Reconnect when ready."