Diction

Preferring some terms over the others makes consistent documentation.

Table 1. General Terms
Preferred Non-preferred Example
shows, appears displays The element appears.
enable allow The feature enables you to do something.
file name filename Enter a file name.
image picture, photo Select an image.
screenshot screen capture, screen image Upload a screenshot.
want wish, desired Select the option that you want to enable.

pop-up

popup

The browser blocks pop-ups from automatically showing up on your screen.
Table 2. Windows and Panes
Term Usage Example
window large interface areas that contain buttons, fields, and a close icon. In the Bulk Change window...
dialog small interface areas, usually for errors or confirmations In the Insert dialog...
pane distinct interface areas grouping related items typically placed on the right or left In the Activity pane...
Table 3. Selectable Areas
Term Usage Example
drop-down menu selectable list items in a menu From the More drop-down menu, select...
check box selectable boxes Select the Owner check box...
field area where you can enter text strings In the Keys field, enter...
Table 4. Actions
Term Usage Example
click interactions with buttons, icons, or links In the content library, click the Open icon.
right-click opening a contextual drop-down menu In the content library, right-click a file and...
select interactions with a drop-down menu In the More drop-down menu, select...
select and clear interactions with a check box Select the check boxes next to the files you want to rename.
enter typing text into a text area Enter a title for your file.
navigate find a file or folder Navigate to the image you want to upload.
place cursor location Place your cursor where you want to insert a table.