What People Actually Look at on Your Website

  • May 1, 2024
  • 6 mins read
Web Design

Tags: front-end;behavior;usability;content;analytics

What People Actually Look at on Your Website

Summary

Visitors don’t read every word, and they’re more likely to leave than linger. In this post, we explore what users actually pay attention to when they land on your website, from how fast they form opinions to what kind of content holds their attention. Backed by real data and behavioral insights, this guide helps you focus your site where it matters.


Keep Reading

You’ve Got Seconds—Make Them Count

According to eye-tracking studies, users scan a webpage in an “F” pattern—focusing on the top-left, headline, and first few paragraphs. This means you only have a few seconds to grab attention.

The 3-Second Rule (or Less)

Users form an impression in just 50 milliseconds and often decide whether to stay within 2.6 seconds. That’s faster than a sneeze. Your value prop and visuals must be immediate and clear.

Do People Actually Read?

Not really. They scan. Most users read only 20–28% of words on a page. Use bold subheaders, bullet points, short paragraphs, and real visuals. Don’t bury the lead.

Images vs. Video

Use meaningful images, not filler stock photos. Real images of your team or products outperform generic ones. Videos work best when under 90 seconds, relevant, and mute-friendly.

How Much Text is Too Much?

Long blocks of text create decision fatigue. The best content strategy is short, useful, and keyword-friendly—without sounding like fluff.

What People Look For

  • Clear navigation and value props
  • Easy-to-find contact info
  • Genuine testimonials or case studies
  • Pricing transparency

Design for Real Attention Spans

Humans now have shorter attention spans than goldfish—just 8 seconds. That’s why FiveFold Designs structures simple, functional websites to match how users behave:

  • Concise headlines and content blocks
  • CTA buttons placed high
  • Scroll-friendly and skimmable layouts
  • Design that guides the eye

It’s not about what you say. It’s about what people see—and where their eyes actually land.

Let’s Keep It Simple

No pressure, no fluff. Just a quick way to find out if FiveFold Designs is the right fit for your business. Book a call or reach out today.