Pop-Up

What is Pop-Up?

Definition

A pop-up is a small window or message that appears in front of the current content to display information or request a response. Pop-ups are commonly used for alerts, confirmations, notifications, or choices that require attention before work continues. This helps ensure that important messages or decisions are noticed at the appropriate time.

Frayer Model Overview

Frayer model diagram explaining the computer term “pop-up,” with sections for definition, characteristics, examples, and non-examples.

Download Pop-Up Visual Study Guide (PDF)

Characteristics

  • Appears above existing content

  • Draws attention away from the current task

  • May require a response before continuing

  • Often temporary and dismissible

  • Can be triggered by the system, an application, or a website

Examples

  • A pop-up asking to confirm an action before continuing

  • A browser pop-up requesting permission to download a file

  • A warning pop-up about unsaved changes

  • A website pop-up asking to accept cookies

  • A notification pop-up with an alert or message

Non-Examples

  • A normal application window opened intentionally

  • A menu that opens from a button or bar

  • A banner message embedded in a webpage

  • A tooltip that appears briefly on hover

  • The main content area of a page or document

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