When creating a username I was slightly thrown off by the inconsistency of calling it a 'username' versus a 'display name'. At first (w/o reading helptext) I thought clicking 'Create display name' was going to take me to another page to create a new name. Maybe think about going with one or the other, I would prefer username.
Also, when choosing a username there is no way to cancel the action and return to the main page (ie clicking off the dialog or maybe having a cancel button.)
That said, the signup process was really smooth and painless. Congrats!
Yeah, I was trying to add as many textual clues as possible to the fact that your Gmail username, etc. wouldn't ever be shown, but instead your "public" or "display" name. But, you're right, "display name" is inherently confusing.
> when choosing a username there is no way to cancel the action
That's actually intentional so that users can't post or comment without a username. But I should add helper text to explain that.
As someone who came here from reddit because it was turning into digg, I agree. The quality of the articles and comments on HN is amazing and it's great to be able to come here and actually be interested in every link without having to skip past all the images of cute animals and political trash. I am aware that the number of users and the quality of a site like this is inversely correlated, so I think taking every action to preserve the original idea and intent of HN should be a high priority of the members here. Thanks for bringing me great tech links HN!
Also, when choosing a username there is no way to cancel the action and return to the main page (ie clicking off the dialog or maybe having a cancel button.)
That said, the signup process was really smooth and painless. Congrats!