Movement draws the eye whether we want it to or not, which makes it one of the most powerful — and most abused — tools in interface design. Used well it clarifies; used carelessly it distracts and delays.

Animate to explain

The best transitions answer a question the user is already asking: where did this come from, where did it go, what changed. When motion mirrors cause and effect, it feels invisible and correct.

Speed is a feature. Interactions should feel instant, so we keep durations short and reserve slower, expressive motion for moments that genuinely deserve a beat of attention.

Respect the reader

We honour reduced-motion preferences and never trap essential meaning inside an animation. If the story only works while something is moving, the story is not finished.