Moment

task_execution

Form filling, configuration, multi-step flows. Actionable labels.

Weights

ContentRX adjusts how strictly each standard is enforced in this moment. Cross-reference any standard by its ID to read the full rule.

Emphasized — flag more aggressively

  • ACT-01 — Start button and CTA text with a verb. Tell the user what will happen. Navigation labels, tabs, section headings, and confirmation or status messages are not CTAs — patterns like 'Project created' or 'Payment sent' are valid confirmation copy and should not be flagged.
    Labels and instructions must start with clear action verbs.
  • CLR-03 — Use short sentences. Aim for 15-20 words per sentence. Sentences over 25 words should almost always be split.
    Keep helper text short — users are mid-task, not reading.
  • ACC-07 — Write clear, concise form labels. Only mark fields as required when they are truly necessary.
    Form fields need accessible labels and helper text.
  • PRF-11
    Telling users to 'simply enter' dismisses the friction they may be experiencing.

Example pairs

Concrete "this, not that" examples observed in 4 style guides. Attribution is inline — see /ethics for the commitment and /sources for the full list.

  • VT-01 · short_ui_copyCC-BY-4.0

    Not this. The file was uploaded by the user.

    But this. You uploaded the file.

    Active voice puts the actor first; inverts passive construction. — Microsoft Writing Style Guide · Voice and tone — Active voice

  • ACT-01 · button_ctaall-rights-reserved

    Not this. Submit

    But this. Save changes

    Polaris: start with a verb that describes the specific action — 'Submit' is too generic. — Shopify Polaris · Buttons — Copy

  • PRF-11 · tooltip_microcopyCC-BY-NC-ND-4.0

    Not this. Just enter your email and you're done.

    But this. Enter your email.

    Mailchimp: 'just' and 'simply' minimize effort the user might actually feel. Drop the filler. — Mailchimp · Voice and tone — Don't be dismissive

  • ACT-01 · button_ctaCC-BY-4.0

    Not this. Yes

    But this. Download

    Microsoft: 'Yes' buttons rely on the reader remembering the question; action verbs survive standalone reading. — Microsoft Writing Style Guide · UI text — Button labels

  • VT-02 · short_ui_copyOGL-3.0

    Not this. Users should enter their address here.

    But this. Enter your address.

    GOV.UK: drop third-person references to 'users' in UI strings. Talk to the reader directly. — GOV.UK Style Guide · Style — Addressing the user

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