diff --git a/lispref/tips.texi b/lispref/tips.texi
index 5a1b6cc5dcf..b52c0352e0a 100644
--- a/lispref/tips.texi
+++ b/lispref/tips.texi
@@ -146,6 +146,19 @@ The reason for this rule is that a non-prefix binding for @key{ESC} in
 any context prevents recognition of escape sequences as function keys in
 that context.
 
+@item
+Anything which acts like a temporary mode or state which the user can
+enter and leave should define @kbd{@key{ESC} @key{ESC}} of
+@kbd{@key{ESC} @key{ESC} @key{ESC}} as a way to escape.
+
+For a state which accepts ordinary Emacs commands, or more generally any
+kind of state in which @key{ESC} followed by a function key or arrow key
+is potentially meaningful, then you must not define @kbd{@key{ESC}
+@key{ESC}}, since that would preclude recognizing an escape sequence
+after @key{ESC}.  In these states, you should define @kbd{@key{ESC}
+@key{ESC} @key{ESC}} as the way to escape.  Otherwise, define
+@kbd{@key{ESC} @key{ESC}} instead.
+
 @item
 Applications should not bind mouse events based on button 1 with the
 shift key held down.  These events include @kbd{S-mouse-1},