I'm developing a writing interface that has a strict limit of 144 characters, and I'm trying to decide on the best way to display this limit without stressing users out. Here are some ideas I've thought about: 1) A standard 0/144 counter; 2) A progress bar without numbers that changes color when nearing the limit; 3) Just a maximum length with no visual feedback; 4) Displaying messages like "Plenty to write" or "Almost at the end"; 5) Making the counter appear only after a certain number of characters are typed. What do you think? Any other suggestions?
5 Answers
I want the counter visible from the start! Just let me know there’s a limit right away, along with the exact character count rather than vague indicators. That would make things clearer.
I would go with a standard 0/144 counter that only shows after around 100 characters. It's important to give users plenty of warning!
The idea of using the "plenty to write" messages is cute, but it might get tiring to keep up with. I prefer the progress bar with a color shift. It feels natural and doesn't pressure you like a hard number might.
I'm leaning towards showing a counter that only appears near the limit to keep things calm, but I'm also playing with the idea of simulating the experience of a pen running out of ink, which could be a fun twist!
Twitter does a nice job with their character counter. Maybe take some inspiration from their design without copying it directly? I think it works well!
I’ll look into that! Is it the progress arc they use? I don't have a Twitter account, but I’ll check out some images online.
As a user, it would frustrate me to learn about a character limit halfway through writing. Especially on a phone, editing in small boxes is tough.
That's true, but then again, maybe seeing the limit could inspire creativity rather than feeling limiting!
Seems like most people are leaning towards having a counter visible all the time.