What are some examples of recognition rather than recall principles applied in popular apps or websites?

1 Icons and labels

One of the simplest ways to implement recognition rather than recall is to use icons and labels that are clear, consistent, and familiar to the users. For example, most social media apps use icons such as a heart, a comment, or a share to indicate the actions users can take on a post. These icons are widely recognized and understood by the users, so they do not have to memorize what each one means. Similarly, most e-commerce websites use labels such as "Add to cart", "Checkout", or "Track order" to guide the users through the buying process. These labels are descriptive and intuitive, so they do not require the users to recall what each step entails.

2 Autofill and suggestions

Another way to reduce the cognitive load on the users is to provide autofill and suggestions that anticipate their needs and preferences. For example, most search engines and browsers offer autofill and suggestions based on the user's previous queries, history, and location. This helps the users to find what they are looking for faster and easier, without having to type the whole query or remember the exact spelling or format. Similarly, most streaming services and music apps offer recommendations and playlists based on the user's taste, mood, and behavior. This helps the users to discover new content and enjoy their experience, without having to browse through endless options or recall what they liked before.

3 Filters and categories

A third way to facilitate recognition rather than recall is to use filters and categories that organize the information and options in a meaningful and logical way. For example, most travel apps and websites use filters and categories such as price, rating, location, amenities, or reviews to help the users narrow down their choices and find the best deal for their trip. These filters and categories are relevant and useful to the users, so they do not have to sift through irrelevant or overwhelming data or remember what criteria they used before. Similarly, most news apps and websites use filters and categories such as topics, sources, regions, or popularity to help the users access the content they are interested in and stay informed, without having to scroll through unrelated or outdated news or remember what they read before.

5 Defaults and presets

A fifth way to enhance recognition rather than recall is to use defaults and presets that simplify the choices and settings for the users. For example, most camera apps and websites use defaults and presets such as auto mode, filters, or effects to help the users take better photos and videos, without having to adjust the parameters or remember the optimal settings. These defaults and presets are convenient and fun for the users, so they do not have to learn or experiment with the features or remember their preferences. Similarly, most gaming apps and websites use defaults and presets such as difficulty levels, controls, or modes to help the users enjoy the games, without having to configure the options or remember the rules. These defaults and presets are adaptable and engaging for the users, so they do not have to customize or memorize the games.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?