In the ideal world, users never make mistakes and complete tasks successfully every time. Unfortunately, in the real world, systems can be confusing, users may get distracted or lose attention, and errors happen.

Error-prevention strategies for inputs include:

• Using constraints: Constraints prevent users from typing a wrong input by setting boundaries. For example, inputs asking for users' phone numbers or banking card numbers should show a numeric keyboard only.
• Using forgiving formats: Rather than forcing users to type in a format desired for your system, allow them to type in a way that's convenient to them. Then, format their input while users are typing and add necessary spaces, parentheses, or hyphens, removing letters if it's a phone number input, for example.
• Reducing cognitive load: Don't force users to keep too many things in mind. For example, it's a good practice to detect the SMS passcode from their messages and display it above the keyboard. This way, users don't need to switch between screens and strain their memory.^[1]
• Providing clear instructions: Users don't like reading and prefer skimming information. So make sure labels, tooltips, and form instructions are concise and straight to the point.