“Don’t Make Me Think”: The Web Design Book Every Developer Should Read (Even in 2025)

If you build websites—or even just care about how people use them—Steve Krug’s Don’t Make Me Think should be on your desk. Originally published over two decades ago and now in its 3rd Edition, this book remains the go-to guide for anyone serious about creating intuitive, user-friendly websites.

Krug’s message is simple but profound:

“If your users have to stop and think about how to use your site, you’ve already failed.”

Why It Still Matters

Even though the internet has evolved from desktop pages to responsive design and mobile apps, the core of usability hasn’t changed. People still want one thing: to get what they came for quickly and easily.

Here are a few of the principles that stand out:

• Don’t make people think. Design every element to be obvious and self-explanatory. Labels, buttons, and navigation should be instantly recognizable.

• We scan, we don’t read. Users skim pages looking for cues. Design for scanning, not reading—use clear headings, bullet lists, and visual hierarchy.

• Omit needless words. Every extra word forces people to think. Cut the fluff and get to the point.

• Test early, test often. Krug’s mantra: “A morning a month, that’s all we ask.” Regular usability testing, even with one user, can save thousands in redesign costs.

• Be a mensch. Treat users with courtesy. Goodwill can make up for design imperfections; frustration kills trust.

Modern Lessons from a Classic

The third edition adds valuable updates for mobile usability and accessibility—topics that have become crucial in 2025. Krug reminds us that good design isn’t about fancy visuals or trendy frameworks; it’s about helping people do what they came to do without confusion.

For developers, that means:

• Build with empathy.

• Test with real users.

• Remember that your users aren’t you.

Final Thoughts

At Apollos Development, we design every project with Krug’s philosophy in mind: make it simple, make it clear, and never make the user think.

Whether you’re a designer, developer, or business owner, this book will change how you look at every website—including your own.

Ready to Read It?

You can grab Don’t Make Me Think, Revisited (3rd Edition) on here:

👉 Buy on Amazon

It’s one of those rare books that’s easy to read, immediately actionable, and genuinely entertaining.