Motion can show a relationship or draw attention, but it should not be necessary to understand ordinary page content. Decide what each animation communicates before adding it. Long transitions and automatic movement can distract from reading or delay access to a useful action.

A practical approach

Provide a usable experience when motion is reduced or unavailable. Essential information should remain visible and controls should not depend on a precise moving target. Review animations on the devices the site supports, including slower hardware where transitions may behave differently.

Your checklist

  • Keep decorative movement separate from essential content.
  • Respect reduced-motion preferences where implemented.
  • Check automatic media for appropriate controls.

For example

A short transition can help show an expanded menu, but the menu still needs to open and work immediately. The animation should support the state change rather than become an obstacle to navigation.

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