The principle that even though it is best if a system can be used without documentation, help should be available, easy to search, focused on the user's task, and list concrete steps. Good help is contextual and not overly long.
Synonyms
- documentation
- contextual help
Related terms
- tooltip
- onboarding
- microcopy
- heuristic evaluation
In plain words
- make help easy to find and follow
- give clear instructions when people get stuck
Usage example
A searchable help centre with step-by-step task guides satisfies the help and documentation heuristic.
Don't confuse with…
- onboardingOnboarding introduces first-time users to a product; help and documentation is reference support available whenever a user needs it.
Categories
- Usability principles