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02
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Writing
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28 Sep 2026
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3 min
Notes on error messages
Three rules for error copy, with before and after examples.
Most error messages describe the system. People want to know what happened to their money, their draft or their time.
Say what happened
Card declined by your bank. Nothing was charged.
Say what to do
Try another card, or call the number on the back.
Keep their work
Never clear a field that someone has just typed in.