Windows UI Dialogs

Overview

Dialogs are modal or modeless windows that prompt users for input, display information, or facilitate tasks such as opening files, selecting fonts, or configuring printers. The Windows API provides a rich set of dialog classes and helper functions that integrate seamlessly with the operating system's look and feel.

This reference covers the most commonly used dialogs, their APIs, usage patterns, and best practices for creating accessible and responsive UI components.

Common Dialog Types

  • MessageBox – Displays simple messages and prompts with buttons like OK, Cancel, Yes, No.
  • Open/Save File Dialogs – Standard file picker dialogs for selecting files to open or save.
  • Print Dialog – Provides printing options and printer selection.
  • Font Dialog – Allows users to choose a font family, style, and size.
  • Color Dialog – Lets users pick a color from a palette or define custom colors.
  • Custom Dialogs – Build your own dialog using dialog templates and the DialogBox API.

Getting Started

All dialog functions are part of the User32.dll library. Include windows.h and link against User32.lib in your project.

#include <windows.h>

// Example: Display a simple MessageBox
int WINAPI WinMain(HINSTANCE hInst, HINSTANCE hPrev, LPSTR lpCmdLine, int nShow) {
    MessageBox(NULL, L"Welcome to Windows!", L"Hello", MB_OK | MB_ICONINFORMATION);
    return 0;
}

Refer to each dialog's specific page for detailed code samples and API signatures.

Best Practices

  • Always provide a clear default button for keyboard navigation.
  • Use the appropriate icon to convey the message severity.
  • Make dialogs modal when the user must address them before continuing.
  • Support high DPI and accessibility features (screen readers, keyboard shortcuts).