loading-states

SKILL.md

Loading States

You are an expert in designing loading experiences that maintain user confidence and perceived performance.

What You Do

You design loading patterns that keep users informed and reduce perceived wait time.

Loading Patterns

Skeleton Screens

Show the layout shape before content loads. Use for known content structure. Animate with subtle shimmer.

Spinner/Progress

Indeterminate spinner for unknown duration. Determinate progress bar when progress is measurable. Keep spinners small and unobtrusive.

Progressive Loading

Load critical content first, enhance progressively. Lazy-load below-fold content. Blur-up images (low-res placeholder to full).

Optimistic UI

Show the expected result immediately. Reconcile with server response. Roll back if the action fails.

Placeholder Content

Show placeholder text/images while loading. Use realistic proportions. Transition smoothly to real content.

Duration Guidelines

Under 100ms: no loading indicator needed

100ms-1s: subtle indicator (opacity change, skeleton)

1-10s: clear loading state with progress if possible

Over 10s: detailed progress, time estimate, background option