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Explain with Cognitive Load in Mind: Put Relevant Information beside the Task

Summary

Learn to connect task inputs, steps, and results with cognitive load in mind, retain necessary context, and improve guidance through observed difficulties.

Published

Connect Information to the Task and Reduce Search Effort

Cognitive load refers to the mental processing demands of understanding information or solving problems. Connect relevant information with its operation to reduce searching across materials.

Preserve necessary context alongside concise writing, explaining unfamiliar steps and expected results.

Distinguish Task Complexity from Missing Guidance

Sweller’s research examines cognitive processing in problem solving and its relationship to learning. (Sweller 1988: Cognitive load during problem solving) Applying the idea to work guidance does not establish identical effects for every operation.

Distinguish necessary calculation from searching for formulas and inputs elsewhere.

Connect Materials, Steps, and Results

Show inputs and expected results for each step. Explain abbreviations and match guidance labels to interface labels.

Show an Example before a Different Task

Keep hypothetical inputs, formula, and answer together, then try different values.

Reduce Irrelevant Decoration and Repetition

Keep unrelated detail outside the main operation and distinguish supplemental information.

Revise Guidance Using Interrupted Tasks and Misunderstood Terms

Observe first-time work and record information searches and incorrect inputs. Assess completed tasks and support needs alongside text length.

Update public guidance when procedures change.

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Frequently asked questions

Q: What does cognitive load mean?

A: Mental processing demands of understanding and problem solving.

Q: Is shorter always better?

A: Retain necessary context, inputs, and results.

Q: What should an example show?

A: Connected inputs, steps, and results.

Q: How should guidance be assessed?

A: Use interrupted tasks, misunderstood terms, and completed work.

Sources

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