The core
Cognitive bias are the mental shortcuts our brains take shortcuts when making decisions or processing information. Instead of thinking through every detail carefully, we often rely on patterns, experiences, or emotions to make quick judgments. These shortcuts help us save time but they can sometimes lead to mistakes or misjudgments.
The concept of cognitive bias was brought into focus by psychologists Daniel Kahneman and Amos Tversky in the 1970s. Their research revealed that decision making is not always logical or data driven instead, it’s shaped by deep-rooted cognitive patterns that often operate beneath our awareness.
Understanding cognitive biases allows designers to anticipate how users might think, feel, and behave in response to digital experiences. Designing with these tendencies in mind helps reduce friction, support decision-making, and create more intuitive and trustworthy interfaces.
Takeaways
Cognitive bias affects how users notice and remember information. We tend to remember what comes first or last in a sequence. Designers can use this by placing important content or actions in those key spots.
It influences trust and credibility. Biases such as the authority bias or confirmation bias impact how users evaluate content, trust sources, and form opinions.
People prefer experiences that match what they already know. While innovation is important, overly unfamiliar interfaces often cause friction. Leaning into familiarity helps users navigate with ease.
When users are faced with too many choices, they often feel stuck or anxious, leading to decision fatigue. A good design helps by narrowing down options, grouping them meaningfully, or offering clear recommendations. It makes users feel confident rather than confused.
