The principle that a design should speak the user's language and follow real-world conventions, using familiar words, icons, and orderings rather than technical jargon. It makes information feel natural and expected.
Synonyms
- speak the user's language
Related terms
- mental model
- metaphor
- plain language
- convention
In plain words
- using words and symbols people already know
- matching how things work in real life
Usage example
Labelling the icon cart instead of transaction container is a match between system and real world.
Don't confuse with…
- plain languageThis heuristic covers matching real-world order and metaphors as well as wording; plain language is specifically about clear, jargon-free text.
Categories
- Usability principles