How users read a Website (Study)

Studies have shown that users read web content fast. Within a few seconds users scan their monitors in an F shaped pattern. First they read horizontally from left to right, usually at the top of the page first.Finally the typical user scans the left hand side of the screen vertically. The picture below was taken by special eye tracking cameras setup by Nielsen Norman Group.



This is a great tool to use when designing layouts. Obviously the most important information, such as the company logo, should be place in the upper left-hand corner. This study also shows that left sidebar navigation is best. This study has shown that people do not read every word of text on your website. When designing your website layout, it is important to remember this study when placing content.