Card Sorting

Card sorting is a user research method used in UX design to understand how users organize information. In this process, users group related items together and give names to these groups. It helps designers create website structures and navigation that make sense to real users.

During card sorting, researchers give participants cards with different topics, features, or content. Users then sort these cards into groups that feel logical to them. This shows designers how people naturally think about and organize information.

Types of Card Sorting

There are three main approaches to card sorting, each giving different insights about user behavior.

• Open Card Sorting - Users create their own groups and labels for the cards. This shows how people naturally organize content when there’s no outside influence.
• Closed Card Sorting - Users sort cards into groups that already have names. This tests whether your existing categories make sense to users.
• Hybrid Card Sorting - Users sort cards into existing groups but can also create new groups if needed. This combines the benefits of both open and closed methods.

Tip: Choose open sorting when building new navigation from scratch. Use closed sorting to test existing structures. Pick hybrid sorting when you want flexibility in your research.

Best Practices for Card Sorting

Follow these practices to run effective card sorting sessions that give useful results.

• Keep the number of cards between 30-60. Too few cards won't show clear patterns, and too many will overwhelm participants.
• Write clear, simple labels on each card that users will easily understand. Avoid jargon or internal company terms that confuse people.
• Give participants enough time to think through their groupings. Don't rush the process, or participants may make quick, unreliable decisions.
• Ask participants to explain their thinking out loud as they sort. This gives you insight into their reasoning and mental models.
• Test with 15-20 participants to get reliable patterns. Fewer people may not show clear trends, while more add little extra value.
• Use online card sorting tools for remote sessions, or physical cards for in-person research. Both methods work well when done correctly.

Note: All information and/or data from external sources is believed to be accurate as of the date of publication.