Z-Pattern
An eye-tracking pattern where users scan pages in a Z-shape: across the top, diagonally to the bottom-left, then across the bottom. Common on pages with minimal text and clear CTAs.
The Z-pattern applies to layouts with less text and more visual elements: landing pages, hero sections, and marketing pages. The eye starts top-left (logo), moves right (navigation or headline), drops diagonally to the bottom-left (supporting content), then sweeps right to the bottom-right (CTA). This is why landing pages place the primary call-to-action in the bottom-right quadrant, it is the natural endpoint of the Z-scan.
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Related Terms
F-Pattern
A common eye-tracking pattern where users scan content-heavy pages in an F-shape: across the top, down the left side, then across shorter horizontal scans.
Visual Hierarchy
The arrangement of design elements so the eye processes them in a deliberate order, controlled by size, contrast, color, spacing, and position.
CTA
Call to Action. A design element, usually a button or link, that prompts the user to take a specific action like signing up, buying, or downloading.