Cognitive Load Theory · Feb 2026
Split-Attention Effect
= The cost of looking away # #clt #ux #design
The Split-Attention Effect occurs when learners must split their attention between multiple sources of information that are physically separated. This forces the brain to waste resources matching elements. CLN solves this by integrating label and content into a single visual unit.
01/Definition Core Concept
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? Why this structure?
 Extraneous load caused by spatially separated but related information.
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 definition clt ux
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 Discovered by Sweller & Chandler (1991).
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 key_concept: "Physical Integration"
02/The Problem Cognitive Cost
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 Scenario: Traditional Documentation
✕ Traditional Layout
[Diagram: Box A connects to Box B]
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(3 paragraphs later)
"As shown in the diagram above, Box A sends data..."
! The Cognitive Cost
. Eye movement: Text → Diagram → Text
. Mental Action: "Find Box A" → "Match Text"
! Load: High Extraneous (Search & Match)
→ Working Memory depleted by navigation
Text
→
Search
→
Diagram
→
Match
→
Text
03/CLN Solution: Spatial Integration Best Practice
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 CLN embeds the relationship directly into the text.
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 solution
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 Implementation
. Operators and Indentation replace the Diagram.
. The structure is the diagram.
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⛓ Trace causality chain
 Result: Zero distance between label and data.
| Prose
"The Auth Module (see Figure 2) relies on
the Database (see Figure 3) for token storage."
@ split: High (3 sources)
| CLN
. Auth Module
    → Result: Token storage
    | db: Database
@ split: Zero (Integrated)
04/Guidelines for CLN Authors
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Rule 1: Proximity
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 Keep the operator and the content on the same line.
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? What's the problem?
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 Avoid: "Risk: see below"
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 Use: ! Risk: Immediate description
. Rule 2: Eliminate References
= Remove phrases like "as mentioned above" or "see table".
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⛓ Show result
 Result: Linear processing flow.
05/Scientific Evidence
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 bibliography:
  1. Sweller, J., & Chandler, P. (1991).
    "Evidence for cognitive load theory."
    Cognition and Instruction, 8(4), 351-362.
  2. Chandler, P., & Sweller, J. (1992).
    "The split-attention principle in multimedia learning."
    The Cambridge Handbook of Multimedia Learning.
  3. Ayres, P., & Sweller, J. (2005).
    "The split-attention principle in multimedia learning."
    The Cambridge Handbook of Multimedia Learning, 135-146.
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 version: CLN v1.7
@ related: Extraneous Load, Dual Coding
Distance creates friction.
Integration creates flow.