How to Fix Overridden Error Messages in HTML DIVs with JavaScript

Discover how to effectively manage error messages when validating forms in JavaScript by optimizing your HTML `DIVs` handling.
---

Visit these links for original content and any more details, such as alternate solutions, latest updates/developments on topic, comments, revision history etc. For example, the original title of the Question was: I'm having a little probleme with JS and DIV in HTML

If anything seems off to you, please feel free to write me at vlogize [AT] gmail [DOT] com.
---
Introduction

Form validation is a critical part of web development that ensures user input is correct and meets specific requirements. However, new developers often encounter issues such as error messages being overridden or not displayed properly. One common problem is when error messages displayed in a <div> are erased each time a validation check is made. In this guide, we're going to explore how to effectively manage error messages in your JavaScript function, helping to improve user experience and code readability.

The Problem

When users attempt to submit a form that has not been filled out correctly, we need to provide them with clear feedback regarding any issues present. If you're getting overridden error messages, it likely means you're using the innerHTML property improperly. This can create confusion for users as they may not see all the errors at once.

Example Code that Causes Overriding Errors

In the existing code, the following lines are responsible for overwriting error messages:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

This line replaces the current content with a new message each time it runs, leading to the frustration of losing previous messages.

The Solution

Here's a step-by-step breakdown on how to fix the issue of overridden error messages:

Step 1: Use the Correct HTML Property

To avoid overwriting existing messages, switch from using innerHTML to innerHTML + =. This appends the new error messages rather than replacing them:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

Step 2: Reset the Error DIV Before Checks

Every time your validation function is triggered, it should clear the previous error messages. This can be done at the start of the function:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

Step 3: Change Logical Operators for Radio Button Validation

In the original code, the validation for radio buttons used an OR operator, which wasn't logical because only one radio button can be selected at a time. Change it to use AND operators to check if none of the radio buttons are selected:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

Improved Code Example

Let’s put these changes together into an updated function. Here’s a complete snippet of the revised JavaScript and HTML to accommodate better validation:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

Conclusion

By implementing the above changes, you can provide a much better user experience on your web forms. Not only will users receive all relevant error messages, but the clarity of validation will also ensure that they understand what corrections are needed. Happy coding!