Laws & Patterns
Heuristic

Consistency & Standards

Similar things should look and behave the same way

Definition

Users should not have to wonder whether different words, situations, or actions mean the same thing. Consistency within your product and adherence to platform conventions reduces cognitive load and improves usability.

Do

  • Use consistent terminology throughout your product
  • Apply the same interaction patterns for similar actions
  • Follow platform-specific design guidelines
  • Maintain visual consistency across all screens

Avoid

  • Use different words for the same concept
  • Change interaction patterns arbitrarily between screens
  • Ignore platform conventions without good reason
  • Create inconsistent visual treatments for similar elements

When to apply

  • Design systems
  • Interaction patterns
  • Terminology
  • Visual elements

Related topics

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