Empty State Guide Template — Turn Blank Screens Into Action

A template for designing empty states that drive user action. Learn how to replace blank screens with compelling guidance that leads to the first meaningful action.

Steps

1

Identify all empty states in your app

Audit every screen a new user encounters that shows no content. Common ones: main dashboard, project list, report page, settings. Each empty state is a potential drop-off point. Prioritize the ones users hit first.

2

Write action-oriented empty state copy

Replace 'No items yet' with something motivating. Pattern: [What this area is for] + [What to do first] + [CTA button]. Example: 'This is where your projects live. Create your first one to get started. → Create Project'

3

Add visual context

Include an illustration or screenshot showing what the screen looks like when populated. This gives users a preview of the value they will unlock. Use your product's design language — custom illustrations work better than generic stock icons.

4

Connect to a product tour

When users click the CTA button in the empty state, trigger a product tour that guides them through the creation process. This ensures they do not get stuck after clicking. Use Escourtly to build a 3-step tour for each empty-state-to-creation flow.

5

Add sample or template data

Offer pre-made templates that users can duplicate instead of starting from scratch. 'Start from a template' is less intimidating than 'Create from scratch.' Include 2-3 relevant templates for each section.

Variations

Data Import Empty State

For data-centric products, offer a CSV import option alongside manual creation. Show sample data format and provide a downloadable template file.

Social Proof Empty State

Add a line like 'Join 2,000+ teams who have created their first project' to leverage social proof in your empty state messaging.

Implementation Guide

Start with the empty state your users hit most often — typically the main dashboard or list view. Implement the pattern above, then measure the click-through rate on the CTA. The connected product tour (Step 4) is critical. Users who click 'Create Project' from an empty state are highly motivated — do not let them get confused by the creation form. A 3-step tour through the form ensures completion. Track the conversion rate from empty state → CTA click → completed action. Effective empty states achieve 40-60% click-through rates. If yours is below 20%, the copy or placement needs work.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should empty states have onboarding or just a CTA?

Both. The best empty states combine a motivating message with a clear CTA AND a connected product tour. The message explains value, the CTA creates intent, and the tour ensures follow-through.

How many templates should I offer in empty states?

2-4 templates is the sweet spot. Too many creates decision paralysis. Too few feels limiting. Name templates after outcomes, not features — 'Marketing Dashboard' not 'Template 3.'

What if users skip past the empty state?

If users navigate away without acting on the empty state, they may not understand the value of that section. Consider triggering a subtle tooltip the second time they visit, pointing out what they can do there.

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Empty State Guide Template — Turn Blank Screens Into Action | Escourtly