By Tangenix · Published 2026-10-23 · Free template

Empty State Copy Matrix Template

Write distinct messages for a new empty workspace, true zero results, loading and failure so the interface does not misrepresent system state.

When to use this template

Use this when one generic “no items” message appears across conditions that require different explanations and recovery actions.

Choose another approach when: You want to disguise a failed fetch as an empty account, invent demo records as real user data, or add a product upsell where the person needs task recovery.

Gather these inputs

• The actual states the interface can distinguish.
• A verified task or recovery action for each state.
• The product behavior and any sample-data route.

Copy and adapt the template

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Worked example

Illustrative example, not a Crany customer result. Replace every example detail with facts you can verify.

In a fictional app, a new workspace can say no checklists have been created and offer the actual create action. During a fetch, that message would be inaccurate, so the interface uses a loading state instead. A failed request has its own verified recovery guidance.
A filtered search with zero matches explains the filter context. The matrix does not assume all four conditions are known if the backend exposes only a generic failure, and it does not populate sample projects without identifying them as examples.

How to use it

1. Enumerate the actual observable states before drafting messages.
2. Pair accurate status text with an appropriate working task or recovery action.
3. Reproduce each safe state and verify its transition in the rendered interface.

Check before using it

• Loading or errors are not mislabeled as confirmed absence of data.
• The action is relevant to why the area is empty.
• Sample content cannot be mistaken for real customer records.

What to measure

Track state-confusion reports and whether people can start or recover the relevant task. The matrix specifies content behavior; it does not prove the underlying state detection is correct.

Research and sources

NN/g supports accurate system status and useful task pathways in empty states. This original matrix does not copy its examples or establish a measured performance improvement.

• NN/g: Designing Empty States in Complex Applications — checked 2026-10-23. Distinguish true absence of content from loading/errors and offer useful task pathways in empty states.

This original template and worked example were prepared with AI assistance. Source documentation supports the principles stated above; it does not endorse Crany or guarantee this template’s performance.

About Crany

Crany is an AI marketing co-founder in development for software founders and vibe coders, designed to strategize, execute approved marketing and improve based on results. This free resource is usable independently of the product. Join the public waitlist.