CODEWITHSUNDEEP
c#.netwindowswinforms
Simon
Simon

Reputation: 558

How to show compulsory fields on a windows form

How should I show users which fields are compulsory in a windows forms application.

I have considered changing the label color or maybe the background color of the text box.

I use an error provider to show a red exclamation mark next to the field, however this is only visible after they have clicked the save button.

Upvotes: 8

Views: 6346

Answers (5)

AgentThirteen
AgentThirteen

Reputation: 261

Something to consider is what users are accustomed to seeing for required fields. While not graphically spectacular, placing a simple asterisk next to required field is a very ubiquitous solution.

Upvotes: 0

Jason Stangroome
Jason Stangroome

Reputation: 4489

I would use the ErrorProvider control, possibly with a different icon to represent "required" as opposed to "in error". I would also ensure the fields start with error icon shown next to them and the icon should only disappear once data has been provided for that field.

Only doing validation/notification of missing data when the user tries to save seems way too late.

Upvotes: 0

benPearce
benPearce

Reputation: 38373

Use the errorprovider extension control.

This places a red cross next to the control with a tooltip message.

Upvotes: 3

Argalatyr
Argalatyr

Reputation: 4659

Yellow background would make it similar to many web forms. No idea whether there are any standards for Windows per se, though if there are I doubt they are widely used.

Upvotes: 2

Jason Jackson
Jason Jackson

Reputation: 17260

  • Asterisk or icon to the side of control
  • Red border when required validation fails (when user tries to save)
  • Bold Labels
  • Different background color for required controls (perhaps only when user tries to save)

Upvotes: 9

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