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The Illusion of Completeness

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When a user is navigating your site, you want them to have a fairly predictable experience. As a developer/ designer you want to make sure the relevant information isn't overlooked, skipped or completely missed.

One common pitfall is the illusion of completeness.

The illusion of completeness happens when the visible content on the screen appears to be complete, when in fact more information exists outside of the viewable area.

Characteristics of the illusion of completeness:

  • Horizontal lines that span the width of the page act as a visual barrier that people may perceive as the bottom of the page.

    • False Floors

  • Expansive white space between content Elements.

  • Interruptions of content flow.