Definition
The amount of mental effort required to use a product. Dense interfaces, complex forms, and hard-to-remember steps all increase cognitive load.
Why it matters
High cognitive load leads to mistakes, abandonment, and churn.
Glossary / UX Design Fundamentals
What is Cognitive Load?
The amount of mental effort required to use a product. Dense interfaces, complex forms, and hard-to-remember steps all increase cognitive load.
More terms
A/B Testing
Comparing two versions of a design to see which one performs better with real users. You change one variable, like a headline, CTA, or layo…
Above the Fold
The portion of a web page visible without scrolling. It is the first screen users see, which makes it the highest-impact real estate on the…
Accessibility (a11y)
Designing digital products so people with disabilities can use them, including users with visual, motor, cognitive, or hearing impairments.…