HTTP 205 Status Code: When to Send a “Reset Content” Response

The HTTP 205 Reset Content indicates that the server has successfully sent the directive to the client, a user agent, or a web browser. This processed request instructs the client to reset the “Document View.”  This also means clearing form inputs or restoring the user interface to its original form once the request is sent. 

The 205 status code is mostly used when the client needs to refresh or update its current input once the request is successfully implemented. The client can press a Clear or Rest button to return to its initial state.

This response code is used in various applications to refresh input fields, update UI components, and clear temporary states without requiring a full page reload. 

Now that we’ve discussed HTTP status code 205 let’s try to know its use, when it’s appropriate to send a Reset Content response, and so on.

Defining HTTP 205 Status Code

It is a status code defined in HTTP/1.1 that tells you your request was successfully processed and that you should reset the document view now. This status code is designed for a situation where a form submission causes an action on the server. The server wants to prevent the user from accidentally resubmitting the form by refreshing the page or using the back button.

• This belongs to the 2xx success status category.
• It instructs the client to reset the UI without reloading the page.
• Differs itself from HTTP 204 “No Content,” which does not reset UI elements.
• Commonly used in forms, interactive web applications, and AJAX-based interactions.

The HTTP 205 response header generally looks like this: 

Status Code 205: When Should One Send Reset Content Response?

Status Code 205: Reset Content Response is generally used in situations where the client would like to have some activity done. This could include clearing from submissions or removing any input value after the request’s processing. Some predominant instances in which this status code might be used are:

1. Resetting Form Fields Once Submitted

Forms are often utilized for inputting data into web applications, such as feedback, contact, or registration forms. It is a good practice to clear input fields after submitting a form so that users can input new data without manually resetting the form.

For example:

• When the user fills in the information in the feedback form available in the database.
• The input then gets forwarded to the application server, which writes this feedback into the database.
• Afterwards, the server sends the HTTP 205 response for Reset Content.
• This will clear all form input fields so that the user can now enter their new feedback without having to reload the page.

Thus, the application improves user experience by not having to clear the form fields manually when HTTP 205 is being issued in this case.

While HTTP 200 (OK) means the request has been accepted, the HTTP 205 response instructs the user agent (the browser) to reset all input entries within the submitted form.

2. Clearing Search Filters and Inputs

Many web applications, especially e-commerce and real estate platforms, allow users to filter the list of products, properties, or other listings they want to search. When users want to reset their search filters, the HTTP code 205 response can be issued to clear the input fields without causing a page to reload.

Let’s say: 

A real estate website provides search filters for location, price range, and property type.

• The user applied filters and submitted a search request.
• After glancing at the results, the user decided to reset the filters.
• The application responds with HTTP 205, resulting in the UI clearing all filters without refreshing the page.

This practice presents a smoother experience for the user, allowing them to modify their search without reloading the page unnecessarily.

You can also read: What is HTTP Status Code 202? – Accepted

3. AJAX-based Interactive Web Apps

AJAX (Asynchronous JavaScript and XML) is one of the inventions of modern web applications. With it, the user can send data and retrieve data from the server in an asynchronous way. AJAX allows these elements to be updated fully in the user’s interface without requiring a full page reload. 

The utility of the HTTP 205 status code can prove beneficial when an input field is to be reset after the completion of an AJAX request.

For example:

A task management application allows users to add tasks dynamically.

• The user types in a new task into the input field and submits it.
• The server processes the task entry and responds with an HTTP 205.
• The input field is cleared up, enabling the user to create an additional task without interruption.
• It guarantees that users will not be required to empty the input field after every task submission.

4. Resetting Chat Inputs in Messaging Apps

The main application that sends messages in real-time is, of course, a chat application without needing full-page reloads; therefore, users could benefit from such an action where the input field is automatically cleared after a message is sent. In such situations, HTTP 205 comes into play.

For example: 

A user types in and sends a message from a chat application.

• The server processes the request and stores the message in the database.
• The server responds with HTTP 205.
• The input field clears so the user can type another message with no other input on their part.

Thus, this method greatly enhances chat by creating an uninterrupted user experience as they send out messages.

Here is how this process works: 

• Firstly, the user types the intended messages and Sends them.
• The front end processes the message and transfers it to the backend through an HTTP POST request.
• The server then decodes the request and responds with HTTP 205 Reset Content

5. Configurations Clearing in User Settings

Most web applications offer users some personalization, where settings such as accessibility, theme, and notification can be specified. If a user wishes to revert any of these settings to their defaults, an HTTP 205 could be sent to reset the UI state without refreshing the page.

Let us consider the situation:

A user who changes accessibility settings, such as the size of text and contrast, will click on “Reset to Defaults.”

• The server responds with HTTP 205.
• The UI requirement here would reset the settings to defaults without requiring a full-page reload.

By this, applications simply put, provide an amazing experience to the user desiring quick resetting back to defaults.

6. Resetting CAPTCHA Inputs Post Submission

Many websites require a CAPTCHA on forms to prevent ignorant and robotic submissions. If the user sends the form with a CAPTCHA filled in and the request is successful, then the CAPTCHA input must be reset. 

Hence, HTTP 205 can reset the input fields for another CAPTCHA entry.

For instance

The user enters a form but does not forget to complete the CAPTCHA.

• The form is sent and processed successfully.
• In the end, the server responds with HTTP 205.
• The CAPTCHA input field clears, allowing the user to fill out and send another form as required.

Thus, it reduces the reloading of forms while maintaining the minimum security provisions.

7. Reset Input Fields After File Submission

There are many applications through which users can upload files, such as profile pictures, attachment documents, etc.

If the upload is successful, the upload field should reset so that the user can upload a file again without refreshing the page. This is a nifty enhancement to the seamless uploading of multiple files in a perfect user experience.

Scenario Example: Job Application Portal

A user submits various documents, such as a resume, cover letter, and certifications, all in one portal for a job application.

• The user selects and uploads a document.
• The server has processed the file and has successfully stored it.
• The server replies with HTTP 205 (Reset content) to tell the browser to reset the input field.

The input field clears as the user can upload another document without refreshing the page; this happens after the file is uploaded.

Also Read: HTTP Code 418: Meaning And How To Fix Issue

Insider Tips for Mastering the 205 Status Code Rest Content Response

The 205 status code is more of an underrated HTTP response that directs clients to reset the document view more effectively. Here are certain tips to master and implement the 205 status code:

1. Set Up Security Configuration by Erasing Text Fields Automatically 

Passwords, payment details, or personal data should be automatically cleared using a 205 Reset Content status code after submission. 

• This helps to keep information secure and out of unauthorized access while ensuring that sensitive information is not visible on a shared or public device.

2. Enhance User Performance on Multi-Step Forms and Workflows

When the forms span multiple steps, a 205 response can be generated to refresh the fields between the steps to avoid accidentally submitting stale or incorrect user data. 

• This is especially effective when applying progressive data entry methods such as loans, surveys, or registration forms.

3. Combine with JavaScript for the Operation of Proper Form Reset Action

The rule with the 205 status code is that browsers don’t reset input fields for it, so developers need to write JavaScript event listeners to invoke the reset. This proves beneficial for developing proper form clearing in complex web applications involving dynamic content or AJAX-based submissions.

Conclusion 

In a nutshell, HTTP status code 205 optimizes your web applications and enables developers to create better user experiences. However, it’s important to understand when to send a reset content response to implement the code perfectly. From resetting form fields to improving AJAX interactions, status code 205 properly executes resets for better UX.

However, to fully utilize the potential of HTML codes like 205, expert guidance can make a big impact. That is why partnering with a performance agency like Result First is important. With years of experience in Web development, SEO and user design, we promise to build high-performing, user-friendly web applications. 

Choose Result First and take your website efficiency to the next level!!