UX designers have to think about the entirety of the user’s interaction with the product. In the case of websites working with article publishing, that interaction includes reading patterns.
Any UX agency can confirm that the way users read web content plays a significant role in website optimization. Users are always in a hurry, searching for the best content in the least amount of time. So researchers did some user behaviour analysis to learn how to keep them engaged, and it turns out most users read articles similarly: in an F-Pattern.
But what does it mean to read in F-Pattern? We explain everything down below. Keep reading to find out what F-pattern is and how to apply it.
What is F-Pattern in the UX
When we say that users read in an F-Pattern, it means that users scan the content in the shape of the letter F. The image of the F is more of a generalized outline – users do not read content literally in an F shape. Sometimes, the pattern can even be closer to the letter E or even the letter L. However, users tend to spend more time around headlines and bullet points, and the passage from one to another is usually done in a vertical line on the left side of the screen.
The eye movement in F-shaped readings follows this structure (and keep in mind that this happens in a few seconds):
- The top bar of the F: users start by reading in a horizontal movement, usually across the upper part of the content area. Here, the user reads the headline and description of the article.
- The middle part of the F: they scan a vertical line down the left side of the screen, looking for relevant information (in the form of a heading or differently highlighted section). When they find something interesting they read the horizontal line, thus making the letter’s lower bar.
- The vertical part of the F: Finally, users scan the content’s left side in a vertical movement. Here, the user scans the article again to check out potentially important information they might have missed.
The F-Pattern is important for users because it helps them be the most efficient they can and allows them to quickly figure out if your page has got what they need.
How to Implement F-Pattern
The F-layout is a powerful tool to improve your users’ experience and make sure your content adds value. You know where the users spend the most time so take advantage of that to give users what they need.
Here are some tips on how you can develop the F-Pattern on your website:
Prioritize the Most Important Information
You only have a few seconds to catch the user’s eye. Since you know that they make a decision based on the first words of the article, be sure to place the crucial information at the beginning of the article.
Create Catchy Headings and Subheadings
Headings and subheadings help organize the content, making it easier for users to navigate. They also help you create natural F-Pattern shapes throughout the article. Mind you, catchy headings and subheadings keep the user interested.
Make Content for Scanning
Keep in mind that users do not read, they scan, so you should create a design that draws their attention by providing a simple and effective journey on the page. Give more visual weight to keyword ideas in the article, schematize the content, use bullet points whenever possible, include short paragraphs, and place key information preferably on the left side, along the stem of the F.
Stick to Vital Information
Excessive amounts of information can compromise the F-structure. Keep it simple and interesting by following the previous tips.
Final Notes
Always remember that time is money, and no one takes that more seriously than web users.
The F-Pattern helps you keep the users motivated and interested in your content because it adds value to their lives. What is more, content writing in this shape takes less time to create as it is straightforward.
