ERROR HANDLING - UX DESIGN PATTERNS

Summary from the TLDR Design newsletter

Error handling is a crucial but often overlooked part of UX that can either erode or build user trust. Good design treats errors as opportunities for empathy, guiding users clearly on what went wrong, why, and how to fix it. By distinguishing between slips (right intention, wrong action) and mistakes (wrong intention), designers can create forgiving, informative interfaces that prevent frustration. Errors should appear in context, near their source, and never block progress. Whether they stem from the user, environment, or system, the goal is always calm, supportive recovery that keeps users confident and in control.