A common mistake in form design: Using placeholders instead of labels in input fields. Why is this problematic?
Disadvantages of placeholders:
- Disappear when the user starts entering data, causing loss of context
- Difficult to read due to low contrast
- Create accessibility issues for screen readers
- Users struggle to remember what information to enter when returning to the form
- Make form completion 25% slower
The correct approach:
- Use always visible labels
- Place labels above input fields
- Use placeholders only for providing examples
- Consider floating label design: Labels shrink and stay at the top when the user starts typing
Well-designed forms reduce the user's mental load and provide higher completion rates.