Overview
Almost every Microsoft Windows–based program uses dialog boxes to interact with the user. The dialog box might be a simple OK message box, or it might be a complex data entry form. Calling this powerful user interface element a dialog "box" does it an injustice—a dialog box is actually a window that receives messages, that can be moved and closed, and that can even accept drawing instructions in its client area.The two kinds of dialog boxes are modal and modeless. This chapter explores both types. We'll also take a look at the special-purpose Windows common dialog boxes for opening files, selecting fonts, and so forth.