# Cognitive load assessment

Cognitive load is the total mental effort required to use an interface. Overloaded users hesitate, make mistakes, and abandon flows.

## Three types of cognitive load

### Intrinsic load

This is the complexity of the task itself.

Manage it by:

- breaking complex work into steps,
- grouping related decisions,
- and revealing advanced complexity progressively.

### Extraneous load

This is wasted effort caused by poor design.

Common sources:

- confusing navigation,
- clutter,
- unclear labels,
- inconsistent patterns,
- unnecessary steps.

### Germane load

This is the useful effort that helps users learn the system.

Support it by:

- using consistent patterns,
- reinforcing correct mental models,
- and teaching through interaction instead of explanation walls.

## Checklist

Count failures across these eight checks:

- single focus,
- chunking,
- grouping,
- visual hierarchy,
- one decision at a time,
- minimal visible options,
- low working-memory demand,
- progressive disclosure.

Scoring guide:

- 0-1 failures: low cognitive load
- 2-3 failures: moderate cognitive load
- 4+ failures: critical cognitive load