What type of text is useful to guide users when they need extra help with a process?

Help tooltips are a highly effective way to guide users when they need extra assistance with a process. These tooltips typically appear when a user hovers over or clicks on a specific element within a user interface. Their primary function is to provide succinct, context-sensitive information that helps clarify what an action will do or explain the requirements of a particular field.

The benefit of using help tooltips lies in their ability to deliver immediate support without cluttering the interface. They allow users to receive guidance precisely when and where it is needed, ensuring a smoother experience as they navigate through a process. This can be particularly beneficial in complex applications, where understanding user actions is crucial for accurate data entry or task completion.

In contrast, placeholder text is generally used to indicate what kind of input is expected in a field, but it disappears as soon as the user begins to type, meaning it provides no ongoing support. Rich text can enhance the presentation of information but isn't specifically designed for providing assistance. Standard text lacks the interactive or dynamic quality that tooltips offer, making it less effective for real-time user support.