Cognitive Walkthrough

A cognitive walkthrough is a technique used to evaluate how easy it is for users to “learn” how to use your system.

It helps spot confusing parts of a design early—before they become expensive to fix. Unlike user testing, it doesn’t not involve users (and, thus, it can be relatively cheap to implement). It steps users through common tasks asking: “Will the user know what to do?” and “Will they know if it worked?”.

Cognitive walkthroughs prompts teams to ask:

• Will users know what to do next?
• Will they find the right thing to click/tap/select?
• Will they feel confident they’re on the right track?

Best Practices

Use realistic tasks. It helps to use real process steps instead of made-up ones.

Involve different roles. Different perspectives can invite more needs or desires.

Keep it focused. Go through one task of a process at a time.

Don’t guess. Simulate what a real user would do if they came across your product or process.

Use plain everyday language. This ensures better understanding during the review.

Use it as part of a group in a workshop setting.

Basic Steps

1.  Determine who will participate. A good best practice is 2–6 evaluators of varying roles.

2. Pick a task. Choose something a new user would try to do.

3. Set the scene. Describe the user, goal, and context.

4. Walk through each step. What would the user do, why?

5. Ask the 4 key questions:

1. • Will the user try to do the right thing?
   • Will they notice the option?
   • Will they connect the option to their goal?
   • Will they know it worked?

Benefits

• Catches problems early—before development gets too far
• Fast and low-cost, no lab or testing software needed
• Builds shared understanding across roles
• Supports design that’s easier for everyone to use