TextArea
A textarea is a multi-line text input field that allows users to enter larger or more detailed text than a single-line text field would typically accommodate. It can be resizable or fixed in size and is often used for comments, descriptions, or any lengthy textual content. Textareas can include placeholder text, helper text, and validation indicators just like other form inputs.
Usage
Multi-line Inputs: Whenever you expect a user to provide more than just a few words (e.g., paragraphs or structured text).
Detailed Responses: Ideal for feedback, long descriptions, or content submission (e.g., blog posts, event descriptions).
Dynamic Resizing: Textareas can automatically grow as more text is entered (auto-resizing) or include a manual resize handle.
Use cases
Comment or feedback boxes in product review sections
Message or description fields in contact or support forms
Text editors for writing posts or drafting documents
Not to be confused with
TextField: A textarea inherently supports multiple lines with a scrollable area if the text is longer than its display size. Single-line fields aren’t designed for extended text entry.
Best practices
Provide a Label & Helper Text
Clearly label what information you’re asking for.
Add hints or instructions for length, format, or content type (e.g., “Please include as much detail as possible”).
Resizable or Auto-Growing
Let users expand the textarea or have it auto-resize to fit the text they enter, reducing the need for scrolling.
Consider a maximum height or use scrolling if extremely long text is possible.
Placeholders vs. Labels
If using placeholder text, ensure it’s brief and not a replacement for a proper label.
A separate visible label prevents confusion once users start typing (placeholder text disappears).
Character Count & Limits
If there’s a maximum character limit, display the remaining character count or truncate gracefully.
For longer text, consider pagination or a separate editor for advanced input.
Validation & Error Handling
Validate user input if there are specific rules (e.g., minimum words, restricted content).
Show inline error messages near the field to explain any issues.
Accessibility
Use a proper label element or aria-label.
Make sure any helper text or error message is announced to screen readers (e.g., via aria-describedby).
Provide sufficient contrast for text and background inside the textarea.
Focus & Interaction
Show a clear focus state (highlighted border or background) to help users track where they’re typing.
Support keyboard navigation—Tab and Shift+Tab should move focus in and out appropriately.
Styling & Consistency
Match the design system’s form field styles (borders, corners, shadows) so the textarea feels consistent with other inputs.
Ensure spacing aligns with other components in the layout.
If only a small input is required, use a single-line textfield. If text is likely to exceed a line or two, a textarea is more appropriate.
Summary
A textarea is essential for collecting multi-line user input — such as comments, feedback, or lengthy descriptions. By providing a clear label, helpful guidance, and accessibility features (like focus states and ARIA attributes), textareas become user-friendly and efficient for typing extended text. Allowing for resizing or auto-expanding ensures a comfortable experience, while consistent validation, error messages, and design styling ensure a polished, coherent interface across all form elements.
