Method for the output of text information via a display in a driver information system in a motor vehicle is provided, the display having a predetermined display capacity, the extent of the information to be output being adapted to the capacity of the display, and the text information or the information elements to be output being divided into at least two components each. The information or information elements are output to the full extent if allowed by the display capacity, and an abbreviation is output for at least one component of an item of information or an information element to be output if the capacity of the display is not sufficient for output of the complete information or a complete unit of information.