Interaction & UX patterns
How the app behaves when people use it.
Empty stateWhat a screen shows when there's nothing in it yet, ideally a friendly nudge toward the first action.
OnboardingThe first few minutes of using an app, designed to get a newcomer to their first success quickly.
Optimistic updateShowing the result of an action immediately, before the server confirms it, and undoing it only if something fails.
Loading stateWhat the screen shows while it's waiting for something, so people know the app is working.
Hover stateHow something changes when your mouse pointer rests on it, signaling that it can be clicked.
Inline validationChecking each form field as it's filled in and showing problems right next to it, instead of after you submit.
Infinite scrollA list that loads more items automatically as you reach the bottom, so it never seems to end.
PaginationSplitting a long list into numbered pages you move between with Next, Previous, or page numbers.
UndoA quick way to reverse what you just did, which often replaces an "Are you sure?" question.
Drag and dropPicking something up with the mouse or finger, moving it, and letting go to put it somewhere new.
Search and filterNarrowing a long list by typing words or picking criteria, like status, date, or price.
Error stateWhat the app shows when something goes wrong, ideally saying what happened and what to do next.
Call to actionThe one button or link you most want people to click on a screen, made to stand out from everything else.