Readability through the lens of cognitive load
Explore how working memory limits affect reading and how to reduce mental effort for your readers.
Cognitive load is the amount of information placed in working memory. Working memory limits what you can reason about.
The Golden Rule
"The best way to reduce cognitive load is to increase the number of meaningful chunks."
Load Factors
Increases Load
- Hard to read text
- Distractions
- Irrelevant images
- Unasked for movement
- Noise
Decreases Load
- Shorter chunks
- Meaningful chunks
- Meaningful structure
- Visual guides
- Combined text and audio
Stress Factors
Situational Demands
- Tired
- Busy
- New environment
Permanent Demands
- Visual impairment
- Dyslexia
- Attention disorders
- Anxiety
- Non-native language