01 / THE IDEA
What does it mean?
Usability testing observes representative users performing realistic tasks, helping identify where and why a design creates difficulty. It can be formative during iteration or evaluative when comparing outcomes.
02 / IN PRACTICE
Make it concrete.
Illustrative example: Give someone a travel app and ask them to change the date of a booking without showing them how. Watch where they hesitate or make mistakes.
03 / WHAT TO WATCH FOR
A common mistake.
Demonstrating the intended interaction and then counting the participant’s success.
04 / WHEN IT HELPS
When should you use it?
Before launch and throughout iteration, ideally with realistic tasks.
05 / FURTHER READING
Explore the source.
Nielsen Norman Group — Usability Testing 101 ↗This is a reference for further learning, not an endorsement or a verbatim quotation.