What is mobile-first design?
Mobile-first design means designing for the smallest screen first and enhancing for larger ones.
Definition
Starting with a phone forces you to decide what really matters, then add layout and detail as space allows, rather than squeezing a desktop design onto a small screen.
Why it matters
It produces clearer pages, because the constraints of a small screen expose what is essential.
How to get it right
- Start with one column.
- Decide the single most important action first.
- Add complexity as the screen grows.
- Check the mobile first screen above all.
Mistakes to avoid
- Designing desktop first and shrinking
- Desktop-only hover interactions
- Heavy assets on mobile
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What is mobile-first design?
Mobile-first design means designing for the smallest screen first and enhancing for larger ones. Starting with a phone forces you to decide what really matters, then add layout and detail as space allows, rather than squeezing a desktop design onto a small screen.
Why does Mobile-first design matter?
It produces clearer pages, because the constraints of a small screen expose what is essential.
How do you get mobile-first design right?
Start with one column. Decide the single most important action first. Add complexity as the screen grows. Check the mobile first screen above all.
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