Progressive Disclosure
Version 1.0.0 · Updated 2026-07-30
CORE DEFINITION
A design strategy that presents necessary information or features only when the user needs them, rather than overwhelming the user with all complex content at once. Scaffolding role: reduces cognitive load. Whether designing software interfaces or teaching complex courses, following this principle prevents the audience from being overwhelmed by information, ensuring sustained focus and a smooth learning/usage curve.
SCAFFOLDING EFFECT
Reduce cognitive load
Reduces cognitive load. Whether designing software interfaces or teaching complex courses, following this principle prevents the audience from being overwhelmed by information, ensuring sustained focus and a smooth learning/usage curve.
Anchor fast decisions
Progressive Disclosure: In interfaces or teaching, first present the information necessary to complete the task, and gradually reveal advanced/secondary content as needed (expand, drill down, next step), avoiding information overload at once and reducing cognitive load.
MINIMUM ACTION
In progress 0/4Practice this model in one real situation:
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Source support: Explicit
- en.wikipedia.orghttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Progressive_disclosureverified
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