Design Principle
Skeletons should preview real content structure instead of adding extra visual noise.
Principle Skeletons should preview real content structure instead of adding extra visual noise.
Design action Match skeleton count, width, and position to the final layout; show key containers first and avoid endless shimmer or large mismatches.
Examples Positive example: Lists, cards, details, tables, and AI generation results wait for data. Counterexample: Skeleton styling is more visually dominant than real content.
Apply when Lists, cards, details, tables, and AI generation results wait for data. Users need to judge state, scope, risk, or next action quickly.
Source notes Source note: Synthesized from Apple HIG, Material Design, GOV.UK/Polaris/Atlassian component practices, and interaction accessibility principles.
Agent Directive
Match skeleton count, width, and position to the final layout; show key containers first and avoid endless shimmer or large mismatches.