We've compiled 5 tips that will be useful for those just starting their UX design journey, but they’re also helpful for practicing professionals.
1. Rethink how you approach testing
When you test a design, you naturally focus on the quality of your work. You wonder if the layout is right, if the user journey makes sense. That’s especially true when you're a beginner trying to prove yourself. But test results don't just reflect your effort — they reveal the user's needs. It’s your first meeting with the user, so make the most of it. If something doesn’t go according to plan, don’t view it as a mistake — it’s a chance to make the design better, based on real feedback.
UX testing shows what your users really need. No matter how experienced you are, you can’t predict everything. Sure, a designer should know what's best from the start. But without testing, you can’t be sure your ideas will work. Evaluate test results objectively and make adjustments when necessary — it’s part of your job, not a flaw.
The better you understand your audience, the fewer tests you'll need. You'll design based on real insights, not guesses or assumptions.
2. Define your priorities
UX research is important — that much is clear. But you can’t test everything at once. You need to create a task hierarchy and work through it step by step. If registration is the main goal, focus on making it seamless first. Other elements can come later.
There are different types of decisions — some absolutely require testing, while others can be implemented based on existing knowledge and refined later. Focus your energy on the most crucial tasks that directly affect project success. Watch the online premiere “Understanding UX/UI in Practice” — it will clarify many points.
First, address key tasks and requests. Then identify which areas need testing — these won’t always be at the top of your priority list. You might feel confident about complex parts but unsure about the smaller ones.
Focus on testing what’s most impactful for your project and what you're least sure about. Then move on to other areas. Don’t try to tackle everything at once — chasing perfection might cause you to miss what really matters.
3. Add bonuses and Easter eggs
We’ve said it before — focus on core tasks. So little fun extras might seem unnecessary. But in reality, these small touches can have a huge impact on how users perceive your product.
Add animations, a clever 404 page, a mini-game, or some interactive control. Just don’t tie it to sign-ups or conversions. Offer it as a gift — something fun and unexpected. For ideas, check out “7 UI/UX Challenges to Boost Your Skills”.
These little things stick in users’ minds. Among dozens of similar websites, users will remember the one where an animated cat dances when you hover over it. It encourages repeat visits. Even if the product doesn’t interest them, they’ll remember the experience. They might even share it with friends or on social media. This is about humanizing your design — giving users a small surprise just for fun.
4. Respect users’ time
The brain makes decisions instantly. As soon as someone starts scrolling, they already have a first impression. That’s why your overall concept, layout, and color scheme matter so much.
Nothing frustrates users more than delays. Of course, loading speed is a technical issue, but it’s also a design concern. Many sites now use animated loading effects. It looks nice, but it slows people down. Animation should enhance the experience, not get in the way. If it distracts from the main message, it’s doing harm.
Animation in modern apps is essential — but use it wisely. It should never block progress. Ideally, it should guide users toward taking action.
The ideal animation speed is 200–500 milliseconds. Faster feels abrupt; slower feels boring. These numbers may change over time, as users consume more content per minute. That means our perception keeps speeding up.
5. Don’t chase complex tools
UX design is about outcomes, not the tools you use to get there. Knowing the latest software is helpful — it reflects how the industry works. But software proficiency doesn’t equal expertise. You need to understand usability principles first. If you can’t explain your idea on paper, using trendy tools won’t help.
The problem is, hiring often focuses on tools. Recruiters ask about software because it helps them assess your experience. But if you have real knowledge and case studies, that’s much more valuable than a list of apps.
Even better — try freelancing. No one will quiz you about tools. They’ll judge you by results. Freelancers often grow faster and earn more. So stay focused on outcomes. Want to learn how? Join the online coaching program “Web Designer: Your Ticket to Thailand”.
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