Select
When to use
Use when users need to choose a single option from a list and space is limited. Dropdowns conserve screen space and prevent erroneous data entry by showing only valid options.
When not to use
- For multiple selections, use MultiSelect
- For 2 to 5 visible options, use RadioButton (lower cognitive load, all options visible)
- For 2 to 3 inline options, use SelectButton for toggle-style selection
- Familiar data like birthdays. users type faster than they select from long lists
Guidelines
- Gray out, don't remove: Unavailable options should be grayed out, not removed. maintains spatial consistency.
- Keep labels visible: The label should remain visible when the dropdown opens so users remember what they're selecting.
- Avoid cascading: Don't make one dropdown's options depend on another. users get confused when options appear and disappear.
How it works