Editing for UX: How Occam’s Razor Simplifies User-Centered Design

In web design, it's all too common to complicate things in the name of enhancing UX. Even skilled designers can get lost in the details, mistakenly believing that complexity equals sophistication. However, true mastery lies in simplification — and for that, designers need a guiding principle to cut through the clutter. Occam’s Razor offers exactly that: a mental model to clarify choices and refresh decision-making in the UX design process.

Let’s explore how Occam’s Razor can elevate your UX by reducing the unnecessary and amplifying clarity.

Occam’s Razor: The Philosophy of Simplicity

Named after the 14th-century English Franciscan friar and philosopher William of Ockham, Occam’s Razor is a problem-solving principle. It states that when faced with competing hypotheses that predict the same outcome, the one with the fewest assumptions should be selected. In short: the simplest solution is often the best.

While originally rooted in philosophy and theology, this principle has found widespread application in science, statistics, and — most relevantly for us — design.

Design with Necessity in Mind

One of the most practical ways to apply Occam’s Razor to UX is by critically evaluating each design element. During the design process, constantly ask: “What’s the minimum UI required to help users find and use this content effectively?”

It’s easy to fall into the trap of adding layers — animations, hidden menus, or micro-interactions — thinking they enhance the experience. In reality, these elements may introduce unnecessary complexity and friction.

Only introduce complexity when it adds real value to the user experience. Otherwise, keep the design as simple as possible.

Good design is as little design as possible.
– Dieter Rams

The Art of Editing in UX

Editing, in the context of UX, is not merely organizing or listing information. It’s the process of curating, refining, and presenting content in a way that makes it more valuable, structured, and meaningful.

True editing highlights essential points, simplifies complexity, and transforms raw data into useful knowledge. It's about making the user's path intuitive, direct, and effortless.

Great UX comes from the continual iteration of questioning, combining, and trimming. Editing isn’t just reducing — it’s an act of thoughtful design. What’s left out is as important as what’s included.

Perfection is achieved, not when there is nothing more to add, but when there is nothing left to take away.
– Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

By stripping away the unnecessary, UX design becomes cleaner, more focused, and surprisingly powerful. Users often appreciate the invisible comfort of a well-edited interface, where everything feels obvious and everything works.

Minimalist UX in Action

Here are five real-world examples where UX editing and the principle of Occam’s Razor shine:

• Google Search
  Google’s homepage is a masterclass in simplicity: a logo, a search box, and minimal buttons. It allows users to act immediately, with zero distractions.
• Apple iOS Control Center
  The iPhone’s Control Center focuses only on high-frequency actions like Wi-Fi, brightness, and Bluetooth. It minimizes effort and maximizes utility.
• Airbnb Booking Flow
  Airbnb guides users step-by-step, asking for only the most necessary information per screen. This reduces user anxiety and creates a smooth booking experience.
• Microsoft One-Click Login
  With a remembered account and just one click, Microsoft bypasses the traditional login process. It’s efficient, fast, and frictionless.
• Amazon Go
  By eliminating the checkout entirely, Amazon Go transforms the shopping experience. The "Just Walk Out" system is the ultimate UX edit — removing one of the biggest retail pain points.

Final Thoughts

Occam’s Razor isn’t just a philosophical concept; it’s a practical compass for any designer. When applied to UX, it reminds us that design should serve the user, not impress the creator. Simplicity is the highest form of sophistication.

Start designing with the courage to remove. What can you cut today to make your design stronger?