Stress-Aware Form Design

Web forms are often the most stressful part of an online experience. Whether users are applying for a scholarship, buying tickets, or just logging in, they may feel anywhere from impatient to livid when poor design blocks their goals. Forms frequently appear in high-stakes moments, yet they’re usually designed for an ideal, calm user instead of one who’s anxious or in a rush. This talk reframes forms as a critical intersection of IA, UX design, and human stress.

Drawing on a true passion for forms and over a decade of UX work in higher ed, I’ll show how choices in titles, labels, and error messages can reduce cognitive load. I’ll share practical strategies for stress-aware form design, including how to shrink form length, handle errors with gentle guidance, and ensure inclusivity. You’ll also hear my hot take about why selects (dropdowns) should be avoided. You’ll leave ready to create forms that respect stressed users… and in doing so, you’ll improve the experience for every user.