# Warnings, confirmations & busy messages

Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface.

Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=messages
Updated: 2026-10-22

Read the action words on a message before clicking. A colourful warning is there to explain a consequence, not simply to be dismissed. Message styling can vary while the newer design is being tried.

![Warnings, confirmations & busy messages — current GBMaps controls](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/message-example.png)

The current panel, with its options expanded where useful. Select a numbered circle to read its explanation.

## 1. Keep editing, Cancel or Close

Usually returns you to the current task without taking the proposed leave/delete action. In a draft editor such as Legend details, Cancel also leaves draft changes unapplied. Read the message if it describes a different result.

[Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=messages#messages--keep)

## 2. Delete, Replace or Leave without saving

These confirm an action that removes or replaces work, or leaves unsaved changes behind. Check the named map, layer or territory. Save a copy first when the previous version may still be useful.

[Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=messages#messages--destructive)

## 3. Save & continue / Save & Logout

Saves the current work before the next action when that option is offered. Wait for saving to finish. If an error appears, do not assume the save completed merely because you clicked the button.

[Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=messages#messages--save)

## 4. Created, saved and download messages

These confirm the result and may offer Download Now, Done or a next action. A file-created message means the export is ready; the browser still needs to download it to your device if you want a local copy.

[Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=messages#messages--success)

## 5. Spinning wheel or progress message

The tool is working on a save, lookup, import or export. Avoid repeated clicks while it is busy. If the operation fails, note the exact message and return to the relevant settings rather than closing an unsaved map immediately.

[Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=messages#messages--busy)

## 6. Messages on different devices

The tool’s messages use the same colours and familiar actions on desktop, tablet and phone. Longer dialogs scroll on a small screen; read the message before choosing an action. Browser permission prompts, file choosers and download warnings may use your browser’s own appearance.

[Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=messages#messages--style)

## Related guides

- [Colour whole areas or smaller districts](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=colour-mode)
- [Save, open & keep a separate copy](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=save)
- [Your account, login & logout](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=account)
- [When the map does not do what you expect](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=troubleshooting)