How to improve password creation in UI design

Password creation is an essential part of most account creation procedures. Most passwords have certain requirements without which they are not accepted. However, the way these requirements are mostly communicated makes password creation a cumbersome experience for the users. The following guidelines can help improve this process:

1. Communicate the process

Most passwords have certain requirements, such as it should include numbers, special characters, no spaces, etc. All of these requirements should be communicated together when the user selects to enter password. These requirements must remain visible while the user has selected the password field. Fewer requirements make the process less complicated and save up your space. A link to password requirements is not sufficient, rather, they should be visible at all times as shown below:

2. Allow unmasking the password

While users are trying to fulfill the password requirements, they randomly enter the characters, numbers, and alphabets. Thus, there is a significant chance that they might not remember it. Even if they try to remember it, that is increased cognitive overload on the user. It is essential to allow the user to unmask the password so they can see what they have typed and store it.

3. Show password strength

People are often tempted to choose basic or generic passwords that are easier to remember. However, that makes the password unsafe. It is helpful to show the password strength along a progress bar and verbally communicating to the user if the password is strong or weak.

These guidelines help improve the user experience while making the password more secure and easing the password entering process.