Same Token Swap Error In Preview Mode: A Bug Fix

by Alex Johnson 49 views

Introduction

In the realm of decentralized exchanges (DEXs), user experience is paramount. A smooth, intuitive interface can make all the difference in user adoption and satisfaction. However, even the most meticulously designed platforms can encounter unexpected issues. This article delves into a specific bug encountered during testing of a decentralized exchange: the “Transaction failed” error that surfaces when users attempt to swap the same token in preview mode. We'll explore the nature of the bug, its impact on users, and potential solutions to rectify it. This article aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the issue and guide developers in implementing effective fixes. When users encounter errors, especially in preview mode where no actual transaction is intended, it can lead to confusion and frustration. A clear and informative user interface is crucial for maintaining user trust and confidence in the platform. Understanding the root cause of such errors and implementing appropriate solutions is essential for delivering a seamless and user-friendly experience.

Description of the Issue

The core issue at hand is an erroneous “Transaction failed” message displayed when a user selects the same token for both the “FROM” and “TO” fields in a token swap interface, specifically within the preview mode. Preview mode, as the name suggests, is designed to provide users with a glimpse of the potential transaction outcome without actually executing it on the blockchain. This feature is invaluable for users to verify the details of the swap, such as the expected output and fees, before committing their funds. However, when a user inadvertently or intentionally selects the same token for both input and output (e.g., swapping SOL for SOL), an error card erroneously appears, stating, “Transaction failed - The transaction failed on the network.” This message is misleading for several reasons. Firstly, no actual transaction is attempted in preview mode, so a failure notification is inaccurate. Secondly, the error message implies a network-related issue, which is not the case when the problem stems from the same token selection. This discrepancy between the actual cause and the displayed error can lead to user confusion and a perception of platform instability. The misleading error message is a critical aspect of this bug, as it can erode user confidence in the platform's reliability. A user encountering such an error might incorrectly assume a more significant issue, such as network connectivity problems or a fundamental flaw in the exchange's functionality. Addressing this miscommunication is crucial for maintaining a positive user experience.

Steps to Reproduce the Bug

To replicate this bug and gain a firsthand understanding of the issue, follow these steps:

  1. Navigate to the /demo environment of the decentralized exchange.
  2. In the token swap interface, select SOL (or any other token) as the “FROM” token.
  3. Maintain SOL as the “TO” token, effectively selecting the same token for both input and output.
  4. Enter any arbitrary amount in the input field (e.g., 1.5 SOL).
  5. Observe the error card appearing with the “Transaction failed” message.

These steps clearly illustrate the simple process by which the bug can be triggered. The ease of reproduction highlights the importance of addressing this issue, as it is likely to be encountered by users under various circumstances. Understanding the precise steps to reproduce the bug is also crucial for developers in the debugging process, allowing them to efficiently identify the source of the error and implement a fix.

Expected vs. Actual Behavior

The expected behavior in this scenario is for the preview mode to gracefully handle the same-token selection. Ideally, the platform should either prevent the user from selecting the same token for both input and output or display an informative message clarifying the situation. A message such as “Same token selected – please choose a different destination” would provide a clear explanation without causing undue alarm. Conversely, the actual behavior exhibits an error card with the misleading “Transaction failed” message. This discrepancy between the expected and actual behavior underscores the importance of clear and informative error handling. Users should receive feedback that accurately reflects the situation, allowing them to understand the issue and take appropriate action. In this case, the misleading error message not only fails to provide helpful guidance but also creates unnecessary confusion and anxiety.

Visual Evidence: Screenshots

The error card displays prominently on the screen, featuring the text “Transaction failed - The transaction failed on the network.” Accompanying this message are two buttons: “Get new quote” and “Retry.” These buttons are irrelevant in this context, as the issue is not related to a failed transaction or a network problem. The presence of these buttons further contributes to the user's confusion, as they suggest potential solutions that are not applicable to the situation. A visual representation of the error through screenshots emphasizes the impact of the misleading message on the user interface. The prominent display of the error card, coupled with irrelevant buttons, highlights the need for a more thoughtful and user-friendly error handling mechanism.

Suggested Solutions

To rectify this issue and enhance the user experience, several solutions can be implemented:

  1. Disable same-token selection: The most straightforward approach is to prevent users from selecting the same token in the “TO” dropdown menu when a token has already been chosen in the “FROM” field. This can be achieved by dynamically updating the available options in the “TO” dropdown based on the selection in the “FROM” dropdown.
  2. Display an informative message: Instead of the generic “Transaction failed” error, a more specific message should be displayed, such as “Same token selected – please choose a different destination.” This message clearly explains the issue and guides the user toward a resolution.
  3. Handle gracefully without an error state: The platform could also handle the same-token selection without triggering an error state. In this scenario, the preview mode could simply display a message indicating that a swap between the same token is not necessary or provide a clear explanation of why the operation is not supported.

These suggested solutions offer a range of approaches to address the bug, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The choice of solution will depend on the specific design goals and technical constraints of the platform. However, the common thread among these solutions is the emphasis on providing clear and informative feedback to the user.

Impact Assessment

The impact of this bug is classified as 🟡 Medium, indicating a moderate level of concern. While the bug does not block core functionality, it does create a confusing user experience. The misleading error message can lead users to believe that there is a problem with the platform or the network, potentially deterring them from using the exchange. This negative perception can have a detrimental effect on user adoption and retention. A confusing user experience, even if it doesn't directly prevent functionality, can significantly impact user satisfaction and trust. Addressing this bug is therefore essential for maintaining a positive brand image and fostering a loyal user base. A proactive approach to bug fixing, even for medium-impact issues, demonstrates a commitment to user experience and platform quality.

Origin of the Bug

This bug was discovered during MCP Playwright exploration testing, which is a form of automated testing that involves systematically exploring the application's functionality to identify potential issues. The fact that this bug was found during testing underscores the importance of thorough quality assurance processes in software development. Testing plays a crucial role in identifying and rectifying bugs before they reach end-users, minimizing the potential for negative impact. The early detection of this bug through automated testing highlights the effectiveness of such methods in ensuring platform stability and user satisfaction.

Conclusion

The “Transaction failed” error for same-token swaps in preview mode represents a notable user experience issue. While it doesn't impede core functionality, the misleading error message can cause confusion and erode user trust. The suggested solutions, ranging from disabling same-token selection to displaying informative messages, offer viable paths toward resolution. Addressing this bug is crucial for maintaining a smooth and intuitive user experience on the decentralized exchange. By prioritizing clear and informative error handling, platforms can foster user confidence and encourage adoption. Remember that a well-designed user interface is not just about aesthetics; it's about providing users with the information they need to interact with the platform effectively and confidently.

To further understand best practices in error handling for web applications, consider exploring resources on user interface design.