Text Area

A resizable text box for multiple lines of standard text.

Component checklist

Status

The status of the component

Ready for use!

Figma component

A link to the Figma library where the component lives.

Repository

A link to the repo where the component lives.

Appropriate width and minimum height

The width of the text area should be appropriate that it can show enough data. The minimum height of a text area should at least display 4 lines of text.

When to use a Text Area VS Text Field

A text area should be used when the requested data is long standard text, whereas a text field is used when the requested data is short and may have a specific type (ie. email).

Do
Text area with a paragraph.

Type of data that would use a text area may include: messages, descriptions/notes, and paragraphs of text like an article, journal entry, or explanations.

Don't
Text area with a short answer but cut off.

Text areas should not be used for responses that are short and specific. in this example, a text field is more fitting. The height of the text area is also too short.

Use descriptive labels

With very few exceptions, labels should always be used with a text area. The label itself should also be descriptive and clear in its meaning.

Do
Label and helper text with text area.

 

Don't
Label and helper text with text area.

 

Placeholder Text

Placeholder text within the text area is optional. When used, it should show an example of what the desired input is.

Do
Text area with short but detailed instructional ghost text.

Placeholder text displaying an example of the type of data input being requested.

Don't
Text area with ghost text stating 'Interaction notes'

A repeat of label or a generic description does not provide helpful guidance for users.

Do
Text area with short but detailed instructional ghost text.

Whether a field is mandatory or not, ghost text can be used to clarify what data is being requested.

Don't
Text area with ghost text stating 'Mandatory field'.

Do not use placeholder text to reiterate that the text field is mandatory.