What does cognitive load refer to in the context of UX?

Cognitive load in the context of user experience refers to the mental effort required by a user to process information and complete tasks when interacting with a product. This concept is crucial in UX design because it influences how efficiently a user can navigate through a system or application, as well as how effectively they can absorb and act on the information presented to them.

When cognitive load is high, users may feel overwhelmed or confused, leading to mistakes and frustration. Therefore, a key goal for UX designers is to minimize cognitive load by creating intuitive interfaces, simplifying information architecture, and ensuring that interactions are straightforward. This enhances user satisfaction and usability, ultimately leading to a better overall experience.

The other options touch on aspects of user experience, such as information display, website performance, and visual design, but they do not encapsulate the specific idea of cognitive load and its impact on user interaction. Cognitive load directly addresses the user's mental workload, making it the most relevant choice in this context.