Clarity that prevents errors.
LABELS
Above the field, visible at all times.
Not placeholder text inside the field, which disappears when typing and leaves the visitor guessing.
THAT IS A COMMON DESIGN MISTAKE
Placeholder-only forms look clean and cause errors.
REQUIRED FIELDS
Mark them. Visitors should know before submitting.
INSTRUCTIONS
Where a field needs explanation, put it near the field.
Phone number format, if it matters What kind of detail you want in a message
ERROR MESSAGES
Specific. Name the field and what is wrong.
"Please enter a valid email address" beats "error in form".
Show them next to the field, not only at the top.
WHAT TO SAY ON THE BUTTON
What it does. "Send enquiry" beats "Submit".
WHAT TO SAY AFTER SUBMISSION
That it worked, and what happens next, with a timescale.
"We will reply within one working day" sets the expectation.
