Article · 9 min read
Minimize Cognitive Load to Maximize Usability
Kathryn Whitenton · Nielsen Norman Group Free Beginner
This is the how behind reduce the thinking to zero. It names the three levers you actually control: cut visual clutter, build on existing mental models, and offload work with smart defaults and re-displayed information. Concrete, checklist ready advice you can apply to any screen.
- Remove clutter that competes for the user's attention
- Reuse familiar layouts so users do not relearn your product
- Offload memory and decisions with defaults and pre filled data