Don't Make Me Think

• Clarity over cleverness: Interfaces must be obvious and self-explanatory. Users should never have to puzzle over what to do next; each element’s purpose should be immediately clear. ^{[k4pvfr] [evb6m5]}
  
• Satisficing behavior: People look for quick, workable solutions rather than optimal ones. Good design leverages this by guiding users directly to their goals without unnecessary choices or clutter. ^{[k4pvfr] [e6jxzr]}
• Navigation must be simple: Effective navigation and site structures help users quickly find content or complete actions. Krug advocates for straightforward menus, logical paths, and visible cues. ^[971hya]
  
• Usability testing is essential: The book stresses the importance of regular, practical usability testing. This can be done easily and inexpensively, allowing teams to iterate and catch issues early. ^{[k4pvfr] [evb6m5]} Krug’s sequel, "Rocket Surgery Made Easy," expands on testing methods.
• Mobile and accessibility considerations: Later editions include guidance for mobile interfaces, reinforcing that all users benefit from ease of use, not just desktop users. ^{[k4pvfr] [e6jxzr]}
• Qualities of great UX: The text outlines essential qualities: learnability, memorability, effectiveness, efficiency, desirability, and delight. ^[aqppr5] A usable product should be easy to learn, remember, and use performantly and pleasantly.
  

• The book is intentionally concise and approachable, aimed at a wide audience beyond designers, including executives and developers. ^{[k4pvfr] [evb6m5]}
• Its advice is illustrated with humor, real-world examples (notably Amazon.com), and practical exercises, such as critiquing website layouts. ^[aqppr5]
• Krug emphasizes the importance of putting yourself in the user’s shoes and designing from their perspective rather than the developer’s. ^[971hya]

Citations