Don't Make Me Think, Revisited Book Summary - Don't Make Me Think, Revisited Book explained in key points
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Don't Make Me Think, Revisited summary

A Common Sense Approach to Web Usability

4.3 (125 ratings)
20 mins

Brief summary

Don't Make Me Think, Revisited by Steve Krug is a user-friendly guide to web usability, focusing on how to create a website that is intuitive and easy to navigate. It offers practical tips and techniques for building sites that work well for users of all levels.

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    Don't Make Me Think, Revisited
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    Instead of learning how a system works, we prefer to play and figure things out on our own.

    Did you read the user manual to a technology gadget you purchased recently? Probably not.

    Unless you happen to be an engineer, most people simply don’t care about how stuff works.

    Imagine asking a random person on the street to explain how a browser or search engine operates. Although most people lack even the most basic knowledge about the mechanics of the internet, they can still navigate websites without much problem.

    So when you buy a new device, often you just play around with it instead of reading the directions that explain how to use it. And then, when you find a method of operation that works for you, you stick to it.

    You may have seen this behavior firsthand, for instance when someone searches for a complete website URL instead of using the browser’s URL bar to go directly to the desired website.

    This is an example of a common decision-making strategy called satisficing. Given a problem, you’d think that a human would rationally search for information, identify solutions, compare them and then choose the best one. But in fact, satisficing is a more typical approach.

    A study showed, for instance, that firefighters simply do a quick check for errors and then proceed with the first available solution. And these are people operating in high-pressure, high-risk situations!

    In contrast, your average web surfer just needs to click the “back” button on a browser if she makes a mistake and clicks on an incorrect link. In general, we make decisions quickly as we surf online. Not only because it’s easier, but also because figuring things out independently feels like a game – it’s more fun!

    In other words, our default internet behavior is to click on the first thing that catches our attention. And when this gets us what we want, we feel smart, comfortable and more confident.

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    Key ideas in Don't Make Me Think, Revisited

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    What is Don't Make Me Think, Revisited about?

    Don’t Make Me Think, Revisited (2014) describes the basic principles governing behavior online and explains how you can build a website that delivers a great user experience. Also included is a simple guide to help you test a website at each stage of its development.

    Don't Make Me Think, Revisited Review

    Don't Make Me Think, Revisited (2014) is a book that explores the principles of intuitive website design and usability. Here's why this book is worth reading:

    • With its clear and practical advice, it provides valuable insights and actionable strategies for creating user-friendly websites.
    • Using real-life examples, the book illustrates key concepts, making it easy to understand and apply to one's own web design projects.
    • The author's humorous and down-to-earth writing style keeps the reader engaged, ensuring that the book is not only informative but also enjoyable to read.

    Best quote from Don't Make Me Think, Revisited

    Krugs first law of usability: Dont make me think!

    —Steve Krug
    example alt text

    Who should read Don't Make Me Think, Revisited?

    • Anyone working at a small company with a web presence
    • Web designers, developers and web project managers
    • Anyone who wants to persuade their boss to take usability seriously

    About the Author

    Steve Krug is a renowned usability expert with over 20 years of experience as a consultant for companies such as Apple, Bloomberg, Lexus and the International Monetary Fund. He’s also the author of Rocket Surgery Made Easy: The Do-it-Yourself Guide to Finding and Fixing Usability Problems.

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    Don't Make Me Think, Revisited FAQs 

    What is the main message of Don't Make Me Think, Revisited?

    The main message of Don't Make Me Think, Revisited is that usability should be the top priority in website design.

    How long does it take to read Don't Make Me Think, Revisited?

    The reading time for Don't Make Me Think, Revisited varies depending on the reader's speed. However, the Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.

    Is Don't Make Me Think, Revisited a good book? Is it worth reading?

    Don't Make Me Think, Revisited is a must-read for anyone involved in website design. It offers practical insights and strategies for creating exceptional user experiences.

    Who is the author of Don't Make Me Think, Revisited?

    The author of Don't Make Me Think, Revisited is Steve Krug.

    What to read after Don't Make Me Think, Revisited?

    If you're wondering what to read next after Don't Make Me Think, Revisited, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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    • Lean UX by Jeff Gothelf
    • The Design of Everyday Things by Donald A. Norman
    • Do Design by Alan Moore
    • User Research by Stephanie Marsh
    • Deep Work by Cal Newport
    • Influence by Robert B. Cialdini
    • Rich Dad, Poor Dad by Robert T. Kiyosaki
    • UX Strategy by Jaime Levy