Controls

Controls are interface elements that let users initiate actions or make choices. Controls appear in windows such as dialog boxes or panels. (For information on window controls, see Chapter 4.)

Controls include buttons, check boxes, pop-up and scrolling lists, sliders, and text entry fields. The following table summarizes the suggested use for each type of control. See the individual sections on each control for more detailed information.

Use this control:	To:
Command button	Initiate an action
Radio button	Present a group of mutually exclusive choices
Check box	Present a group that allows multiple choices
Pop-up menu	Present a list of mutually exclusive choices
Scrolling list	Present a list of nonexclusive or mutually exclusive choices
Slider	Present a continuous range of choices
Text entry field	Enter textual information

Common features

Command buttons

Radio buttons

Check boxes

Pop-up menus

Scrolling lists

Sliders

Text entry fields

Spin buttons

Drop down combination boxes

Border areas