5. Prompt types

When the computer application requires input from the user, a 'prompt' is used.

The style of prompt is determined to some extent by the kind of interface being used

Graphical prompt

The prompt takes the form of icons with perhaps supporting text. This is an excellent choice if a graphical user interface is being presented. All the user has to do is to select the appropriate items from the ones being offered

Command prompts

Probably the most well known kind of command prompt is the blinking cursor on a command line interface. The user is required to type in their commands.

Text prompt

This is used whenever the user needs to input information. Most often seen on a Graphical User Interface

It may be a single line request such as an input box for the user to type into.

or it may be prompting for multi-line input such as a text box

Speech request

This kind of prompt is popular within telephone menu systems where only touch and speech are available. "Please tap in your account number" is often heard when phoning a telephone help desk.