Error messages should be brief and to the point to serve their purpose as a warning. For such communications to be promptly understood by the intended recipient, the language used should be straightforward while not eliciting any panic. Readers should not get too alarmed by the message. In theory, error messages should be able to give solutions to that problem.  Here are some characteristics of a helpful error message:  Clearly state that there is an issue.  Describe the issue that we are encountering.  Try to think of a way to help the user finish the task.  Tell them where to get assistance.  Do not define the error as a problem.