Task pattern

Onboarding

Help people reach first value while preserving autonomy, accessibility, and a path back to guidance.

Pattern model

Parts that must work together

Entry contextValue framingRequired setupProgressSkip and returnFirst meaningful outcome
Why this matters

A pattern is not a screenshot. It is a reusable decision model that must preserve intent, state, recovery, and accessibility as layouts change.

Decision framework

Questions to answer before choosing UI

What is truly required?

Defer preferences and education that do not block first value. Explain why any required setup exists.

Should guidance be staged?

Introduce concepts when the related feature appears rather than front-loading a complete product tour.

How can people return?

Make skipped education, examples, and setup available later from the relevant product context.

Cross-system baseline

End-to-end accessibility

  • Do not force a visual tour through hidden context
  • Support keyboard and screen-reader navigation
  • Avoid focus traps across coach marks
  • Preserve progress and allow exit
Common mistakes

Failure patterns to test

01

Blocking the product with optional questions

02

Long carousel tours

03

No skip or return path

04

Celebration motion that ignores preferences