10 Principles of Good Web Design
Ten principles for creating user-friendly websites that reduce cognitive load, guide attention, and follow established conventions for better usability.
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Don't Make Users Think
Make web pages obvious and self-explanatory. Reduce question marks through clear structure, visual clues, and recognizable links.
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Don't Squander Users' Patience
Keep user requirements minimal. Remove barriers and don’t force registrations before users can explore and test features.
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Manage To Focus Users' Attention
Use visual elements strategically to guide attention to specific areas. Less thinking behind scenes means better user experience.
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Strive For Feature Exposure
Make functions clearly visible through visually appealing 1-2-3-done steps and large buttons. Well-understood content makes users comfortable.
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Make Use Of Effective Writing
Use short, scannable phrases with plain, objective language. Avoid cute names, marketing jargon, and exaggerated statements.
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Strive For Simplicity
Keep it simple as the primary goal. Users look for information despite design, not because of it. Simplicity over complexity.
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Don't Be Afraid Of The White Space
Use whitespace to reduce cognitive load and help users perceive information. Hierarchical structures with whitespace are easier to scan.
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Communicate Effectively With A "Visible Language"
Organize with clear structure, economize with minimal cues, and communicate matching user capabilities. Use max 3 typefaces and sizes.
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Conventions Are Our Friends
Follow established conventions to reduce learning curve and gain user confidence. Innovate only when you have a better idea.
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Test Early, Test Often
Apply the TETO-principle to every project. Testing one user early is better than testing 50 near the end. Testing is iterative.