Design Principle
Progressive disclosure is not just hiding content; it spatially orders task entry, key results, and advanced options.
Principle
Progressive disclosure is not just hiding content; it spatially orders task entry, key results, and advanced options.
Design action
Show only task-critical fields by default; keep advanced options collapsed near their trigger and avoid covering the main feedback area.
Examples
Positive example: Advanced filters, complex forms, configuration wizards, and analytics details need to serve novices and experts. Counterexample: All advanced settings are shown by default.
Apply when
Advanced filters, complex forms, configuration wizards, and analytics details need to serve novices and experts. Users need to judge state, scope, risk, or next action quickly.
Source notes
Source note: Synthesized from Apple HIG, Material Design, NN/g usability principles, and layout/hierarchy practices in mature design systems. Apple HIG Layout: https://developer.apple.com/design/human-interface-guidelines/layout Material Design Layout: https://m3.material.io/foundations/layout/applying-layout NN/g Visual Design Principles: https://www.nngroup.com/articles/principles-visual-design/
Agent Directive
Show only task-critical fields by default; keep advanced options collapsed near their trigger and avoid covering the main feedback area.