<warning>: How do you use the <warning> element to highlight warnings, cautions, or important information within a DITA topic?

November 10, 2023
|By Bryan Tipper

The <warning> element in DITA XML is used to highlight warnings, cautions, or important information within a DITA topic. It allows content creators to draw specific attention to critical information, ensuring that readers are aware of potential risks or important considerations while consuming the content.

Usage of <warning> Element

To use the <warning> element, you typically place it within the <body> of a DITA topic. The <warning> element can have various attributes, such as “type” to specify the type of warning (e.g., “caution,” “danger,” “important”), and “title” to provide a title for the warning. The content of the warning is placed within the <p> (paragraph) element or other appropriate elements to structure the warning’s content.

Example:

Here’s an example of how to use the <warning> element to highlight a cautionary note within a DITA topic:


<topic id="example_topic">
  <title>Using Hazardous Materials</title>
  <body>
    <p>When handling hazardous materials, it's crucial to take the following precautions:</p>
    
    <warning type="caution" title="Caution">
      <p>Always wear appropriate protective gear, including gloves, goggles, and a lab coat, when working with chemicals.</p>
      <p>Ensure adequate ventilation in the workspace to prevent exposure to fumes.</p>
    </warning>
    
    <p>Failure to follow these safety guidelines can lead to serious health risks.</p>
  </body>
</topic>

In this example, the <warning> element is used to create a “Caution” notice, emphasizing the importance of safety precautions when handling hazardous materials. This draws immediate attention to critical information within the topic.