The principle that a design should minimise how much users have to remember by making options, actions, and information visible. Recognising something on screen is far easier than recalling it from memory.
Synonyms
Related terms
In plain words
- show the options instead of making people remember them
- don't make me memorise anything
Usage example
Showing recently used files as clickable thumbnails, rather than making users type the exact filename, applies recognition rather than recall.
Don't confuse with…
- progressive disclosureProgressive disclosure hides advanced options until needed; recognition rather than recall keeps needed information visible so nothing must be memorised.
Categories
- Usability principles