What is cognitive load? Definition, types and examples

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Have you ever felt mentally exhausted after trying to understand a complex topic or navigate through a cluttered website? This experience is often marked by frustration and confusion due to cognitive load. 

In today’s fast-paced digital world, managing cognitive load is essential for enhancing learning, improving user experience, and ensuring that interactions with technology are smooth and efficient. 

In this blog, we’ll understand what is cognitive load, explore its types with cognitive load examples, and understand its implications in learning and user experience design.

Cognitive load meaning

Cognitive Load Theory (CLT) is an educational theory developed by John Sweller in the late 1980s. It focuses on how humans process information and aims to optimize learning by considering the limitations of our working memory. 

The cognitive load definition is grounded in the idea that our cognitive capacity is limited, and instructional design should minimize unnecessary load on our working memory to enhance learning.

Read more on the history of cognitive load

Cognitive load example

Consider a student trying to solve a complex math problem while learning the underlying concepts for the first time. The mental effort required to process and apply new information to solve the problem represents cognitive load. 

In a digital context, a user navigating a poorly designed website with excessive details, tiny text, and confusing navigation faces a high cognitive load, leading to frustration and disengagement.

Understand this cognitive load example to understand this concept better.

Principles of cognitive load theory

1. Split-attention effect

When learners have to split their attention between multiple sources of information (e.g., a diagram and a separate explanatory text), it increases cognitive load. Integrating these sources can reduce the split-attention effect and make learning more efficient.

2. Modality effect

Presenting information through multiple sensory channels (e.g., combining visual and auditory information) can help distribute cognitive load and enhance learning. For instance, explaining a diagram with spoken words instead of written text can reduce the load on the visual channel.

3. Redundancy effect

Providing redundant information (e.g., the same content in both text and audio) can overload working memory and hinder learning. It’s better to present complementary information that supports understanding without redundancy.

4. Worked examples

Using worked examples (step-by-step demonstrations of how to solve a problem) can reduce cognitive load, especially for novices. This allows learners to focus on understanding the process rather than solving the problem from scratch.

5. Goal-free effect

Providing open-ended tasks without specific goals (e.g., exploring how something works) can minimize cognitive load as it allows learners to focus on understanding the material rather than achieving a particular outcome.

Types of cognitive load theory

There are three types of cognitive load theory: intrinsic, extraneous, and germane. Each type has distinct characteristics and impacts how information is processed and learned. 

Let’s explore the types of cognitive load with examples.

1. Intrinsic cognitive load

Intrinsic cognitive load is inherent to the material being learned or the task being performed. It is determined by the complexity of the information and how it needs to be processed.

This type of cognitive load is unavoidable, but it can be managed through effective instructional design.

Example:

1. When learning a new language, this type arises from understanding grammar rules, vocabulary, and sentence structure. For instance, a beginner learning Spanish has to grasp the conjugation of verbs, the gender of nouns, and proper syntax, which naturally demands significant cognitive effort.
2. Solving a complex algebraic equation involves understanding mathematical concepts and applying them correctly. The mental effort required to comprehend and manipulate algebraic expressions represents this load.

2. Extraneous cognitive load

Extraneous cognitive load refers to the mental effort required to process information that is not directly related to the task or learning objective at hand.

It is the additional burden placed on the working memory due to poorly designed instructional materials, unnecessary complexity, or irrelevant information.

This type of cognitive load can interfere with learning and problem-solving by consuming cognitive resources that could otherwise be used for understanding and internalizing essential information.

Example:

1. A textbook filled with dense text, small font, and irrelevant images can increase extraneous load. If the instructions for a math problem are unclear or overly complicated, the student’s cognitive resources are spent on deciphering the instructions rather than solving the problem.
2. A website with excessive advertisements, pop-ups, and inconsistent navigation adds this load. Due to distractions and poor design, users struggle to find the information they need, leading to frustration and reduced efficiency.

3. Germane cognitive load

Germane cognitive means the mental effort required to process, construct, and automate schemas (knowledge structures).

It is beneficial for learning as it involves deep processing and integrating new information with existing knowledge.

Effective instructional design aims to increase the germane load by reducing extraneous load and managing intrinsic load.

Example:

1. An interactive simulation that requires students to apply concepts they’ve learned in a real-world context promotes germane load. For example, a medical student using a virtual anatomy tool to explore the human body and understand the relationship between different organs engages in meaningful learning that enhances schema construction.
2. In a classroom setting, students working on a project that requires them to research, analyze data, and present their findings experience this load. The mental effort spent on these activities helps them deepen their understanding of the subject matter and facilitates long-term retention.

Cognitive load in user experience

Cognitive load is crucial in UX design as it directly affects users’ engagement with digital interfaces. Here’s a breakdown of its significance and how it manifests in user experience:

Role of cognitive load in UX design

Cognitive load means the mental effort required to process information. In UX design, managing this effectively is essential for creating intuitive, engaging, and easy-to-use interfaces. 

Here are some key considerations:

1. Simplify information processing

UX designers aim to minimize extraneous cognitive load by presenting information clearly and organized. This includes using familiar patterns, logical layouts, and concise language.

2. Guide user attention

Interfaces should guide users’ attention to essential elements without overwhelming them. Visual hierarchy, use of contrast, and strategic placement of interactive elements help reduce cognitive load by focusing user attention where needed most.

3. Optimize interaction flow

Streamlining user tasks and interactions reduces cognitive load. This involves minimizing the steps required to complete actions, providing clear feedback, and avoiding unnecessary interruptions.

Signs of high cognitive load in digital interfaces

Identifying signs of high load helps UX designers improve usability:

1. Slow task completion

Users struggle to complete tasks quickly or accurately, indicating that the interface may be too complex or confusing.

2. High error rates

Increased mistakes or errors suggest users have difficulty understanding instructions or navigating the interface.

3. Increased mental effort

Users report feeling mentally drained or overwhelmed after using the interface, indicating a high cognitive load.

4. Difficulty remembering steps

Users frequently forget how to perform tasks or where to find information within the interface.

Case studies of cognitive load impacting user experience

1. E-commerce checkout process

Simplifying the checkout process by reducing form fields and providing clear progress indicators can significantly reduce cognitive load. Amazon’s one-click ordering is a prime example of minimizing cognitive during checkout.

2. Mobile app navigation

Effective navigation design on mobile apps can reduce cognitive load by ensuring that menus and icons are intuitive and easily accessible. Apps like Instagram use simple iconography and familiar gestures to streamline user interaction.

3. Learning management systems

Complex interfaces in educational platforms can overwhelm users. Moodle, for instance, improved user experience by organizing course materials in a structured format with clear navigation paths, reducing load for students and instructors alike.

4. Dashboard design

Data-heavy dashboards can create a high cognitive load if not properly designed. Google Analytics, through its customizable dashboards and data visualization techniques, helps users manage and interpret complex data sets more effectively.

See why cognitive load matters for UX designers

Common mistakes to avoid 

Avoiding common UX mistakes is crucial to prevent overloading users and ensure a seamless experience. 

Here are some key mistakes to avoid:

1. Overloading users with information

Presenting too much information at once can overwhelm users, leading to cognitive overload and difficulty processing essential details.

Example: Presenting too many product features, specifications, or promotional messages on a single screen can confuse users and hinder decision-making.

2. Poorly organized content

Disorganized or scattered content across the interface makes it challenging for users to find what they need efficiently.

Example: Not categorizing content into logical sections or failing to use headings and subheadings to guide users through lengthy text.

3. Complex navigation systems

Complex navigation structures with too many levels or unclear pathways confuse users and increase cognitive load.

Example: Using non-standard navigation patterns, nested menus with multiple levels, or inconsistent labeling of menu items across different pages.

4. Cluttered interface

Interfaces cluttered with excessive elements, visuals, or text overwhelm users, making it difficult to focus on critical tasks.

Example: Displaying excessive buttons, icons, advertisements, or unnecessary visual elements that do not contribute to the user’s goals.

5. Lack of clear calls to action

Unclear or ambiguous calls to action (CTAs) confuse users about what actions they should take next.

Example: Hiding important CTAs in non-obvious locations, using generic or ambiguous button labels, or not differentiating primary CTAs from secondary actions.

Strategies to manage cognitive load

Managing cognitive load effectively in user experience (UX) design involves employing various strategies to ensure that users can process information efficiently and interact with interfaces seamlessly.

1. Simplifying design

a. Remove clutter:

Streamline the interface by removing unnecessary elements that do not contribute to the user’s goals.

Example: Eliminate excessive text, icons, or images that may distract users from their primary tasks.

b. Use white space:

Utilize ample white space to create breathing room between elements and reduce visual noise.

Example: Increase padding around buttons and content areas to make them more distinct and more accessible to interact with.

c. Limit choices:

Present users with fewer options at a time to avoid decision fatigue and simplify decision-making.

Example: Instead of overwhelming users with multiple navigation menus, use hierarchical menus or contextual navigation that unfolds progressively.

2. Organizing information effectively

a. Group related items:

Organize content into logical groups or categories to help users find information quickly.

Example: Group product features under clear headings like “Specifications,” “Benefits,” and “FAQs” on an e-commerce product page.

b. Use hierarchical structure:

Establish a clear hierarchy of information with main categories and subcategories to guide users through content.

Example: Displaying a table of contents or breadcrumbs to show users where they are within a website or app structure.

c. Provide search and filters:

Offer search functionality and filtering options to allow users to navigate directly to relevant information.

Example: Implementing a search bar with autocomplete suggestions and advanced filtering based on user preferences.

3. Enhancing user interface elements

a. Clear visual cues:

Use visual elements like color, size, and placement to draw attention to essential actions or information.

Example: Highlighting primary calls to action (CTAs) with contrasting colors or using larger fonts for headings and meaningful messages.

b. Consistent design patterns:

Maintain consistency in design elements (e.g., buttons, icons, typography) throughout the interface to reduce cognitive load.

Example: Using the same style for buttons and icons across different pages or sections of an app.

c. Responsive design:

Make sure the interface provides a consistent user experience across all screens and devices.

Example: Designing flexible layouts that adjust elements proportionally and reflow content for optimal viewing on mobile devices.

4. Implementing cognitive offloading

a. Use progressive disclosure:

Present information gradually as users need it, reducing upfront cognitive load.

Example: Displaying tooltips or help icons that provide additional information only when users hover over or click on them.

b. Automated processes:

Automate routine tasks or decisions to free up users’ mental resources.

Example: Pre-filling form fields with default values or using predictive text input to speed up data entry.

c. Provide guidance and feedback:

Offer clear instructions, feedback, and error messages to guide users and confirm their actions.

Example: Showing loading indicators or success messages after completing tasks to reassure users of their progress.

5. Utilizing visual and interactive elements

a. Visual storytelling:

Use visuals such as images, videos, or infographics to convey complex information or instructions.

Example: Using a step-by-step visual guide for setting up a new account on a website rather than relying solely on text.

b. Interactive elements:

Incorporate interactive elements like sliders, carousels, and maps to engage users and enhance usability.

Example: Allowing users to customize product specifications using interactive sliders on an e-commerce website.

c. Visual hierarchy:

Establish a clear visual hierarchy to guide users’ attention and prioritize information on the screen.

Example: Using larger fonts, bold colors, or contrasting backgrounds to emphasize key messages or navigation options.

By implementing these strategies, UX designers can create intuitive, user-friendly interfaces that reduce cognitive load. These efforts not only enhance user satisfaction and engagement but also contribute to improved usability and task efficiency across various digital platforms.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding what is cognitive load is a critical factor in user experience design, influencing how individuals interact with digital interfaces. Designers can mitigate cognitive overload and enhance usability by carefully managing the amount and complexity of information presented, organizing content thoughtfully, and ensuring intuitive navigation and clear calls to action. 

At Octet, we apply cognitive load meaning and principles to create intuitive and effective interfaces. We simplify user interactions, optimize information architecture, and craft visually appealing designs to elevate user experience. 

By partnering with Octet, businesses can ensure their digital products meet user needs and offer an enjoyable user journey, ultimately driving engagement and satisfaction.

FAQs

1. How do I increase my cognitive load?

Increasing cognitive load involves engaging in tasks or activities that require more mental effort and resources. 

Here are some ways to improve it:

1. Multitasking: Performing multiple tasks simultaneously, especially complex ones, can increase load as the brain needs to switch between different activities and allocate attention.
2. Learning complex information: Studying challenging subjects or learning new skills that require deep concentration and understanding can increase cognitive load.
3. Problem-solving: Engaging in problem-solving activities that involve analyzing, synthesizing, and applying knowledge can also increase cognitive load.

2. Is cognitive load good or bad?

The cognitive load itself is neither inherently good nor bad. It is a natural aspect of mental processing that reflects the mental effort and resources required to perform a task or learn new information.

3. What is cognitive overload?

Cognitive overload happens when an individual’s cognitive system is overworked beyond its ability to receive and organize information efficiently. 

This can lead to:

1. Reduced performance: Difficulty in understanding, processing, and retaining information.
2. Increased errors: Higher likelihood of making mistakes or errors in tasks.
3. Decreased satisfaction: Frustration, stress, or mental fatigue due to overwhelming cognitive demands.

4. How do we avoid cognitive overload?

To avoid cognitive overload and optimize learning or user experience:

1. Chunk information: Break down complicated information into smaller, manageable sections that are easier for the brain to process.
2. Reduce extraneous load: Minimize irrelevant or distracting elements that add unnecessary cognitive burden.
3. Provide guidance: Offer clear instructions, scaffolding, and support to help learners or users navigate tasks efficiently.
4. Prioritize information: Present essential information first and gradually use progressive disclosure to reveal additional details.
5. Use visual aids: Utilize visuals, diagrams, and multimedia to supplement text and aid understanding.
6. Promote active learning: Involve learners in activities that encourage active participation, reflection, and application of knowledge.

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