Using typefaces with distinct characters can help users easily differentiate alphanumeric data. Choose typefaces that pass the I-L-1 test for data tables and information seen at-a-glance.
Users perceive interface design elements that differentiate the foreground (figure) from the background (ground) as something to focus on or interact with.
Things that move in synch are perceived as belonging to the same group and being different than other screen elements that stay put or move differently.
Visual design elements that are connected (for example, by a line) are seen as belonging together. This principle is strong enough to overrule small differences between the items.
UI elements that are close together are perceived as belonging together, whereas users think that things that are apart play different roles in the interaction.
User interface elements that share one or more traits (such as shape, color, size, etc.) will be seen by users as being similar and belonging together.
The gestalt principles for visual perception make users see some graphical user interface design elements as parts of a whole, and others as being separate, and thus different.
Designers, researchers, and generalists alike can improve their visual design skills through creative exercises focused on identification, replication, or exploration.
Video game design is a special case of user interface design, with some differences (especially in user goals) but also many similarities with more traditional UX design problems and methods.
Direct manipulation is an interaction technique in graphical user interfaces where users move depictions of objects around and get immediate feedback about their actions and the outcome of these actions.
In a graphical user interface, having the user move a cursor within a narrow path (e.g., in a hierarchical menu or a slider) follows a strict law for how easy or difficult it is to do, depending on the specifics of the GUI.
