Usability heuristics

Jacob Nielson

Visibility of System Status

Keeps users informed about what’s happening through timely feedback

Match Between System and the Real World

Uses familiar language and concepts instead of technical jargon

User Control and Freedom

Lets users easily undo redo or exit actions to recover from mistakes

Consistency and Standards

Follows conventions so users don’t have to guess meanings

Error Prevention

Designs the interface to stop problems before they happen

Recognition Rather Than Recall

Reduces memory load by showing options instead of requiring users to remember

Flexibility and Efficiency of Use

Provides shortcuts for experienced users while still supporting beginners

Aesthetic and Minimalist Design

Keeps the interface clean and shows only essential information

Help Users Recognize Diagnose and Recover from Errors

Gives clear human-readable error messages with solutions

Help and Documentation

Offers accessible help or instructions when needed