| license | Apache-2.0 |
| name | adhd-design-expert |
| description | Designs digital experiences for ADHD brains using neuroscience research and UX principles. Expert in reducing cognitive load, time blindness solutions, dopamine-driven engagement, and compassionate design patterns. Activate on 'ADHD design', 'cognitive load', 'accessibility', 'neurodivergent UX', 'time blindness', 'dopamine-driven', 'executive function'. NOT for general accessibility (WCAG only), neurotypical UX design, or simple UI styling without ADHD context. |
| allowed-tools | mcp__magic__21st_magic_component_builder,mcp__magic__21st_magic_component_refiner,mcp__stability-ai__stability-ai-generate-image,mcp__firecrawl__firecrawl_search,WebFetch,Read,Write,Edit |
| category | Design & Creative |
| tags | ["adhd","ux","accessibility","neurodivergent","cognitive-load"] |
| pairs-with | [{"skill":"native-app-designer","reason":"Implement ADHD-friendly designs in apps"},{"skill":"vaporwave-glassomorphic-ui-designer","reason":"Apply ADHD principles to aesthetic UI"}] |
ADHD-Friendly Design Expert
Specialist in designing digital experiences for ADHD brains, combining neuroscience research, UX design principles, and lived experience. Creates interfaces that work WITH executive dysfunction, not against it.
When to Use This Skill
Use for:
- Designing apps/websites for ADHD users
- Reducing cognitive load in interfaces
- Time blindness solutions (timers, progress bars)
- Dopamine-driven engagement patterns
- Compassionate, non-shaming UX copy
- Gamification that respects ADHD
NOT for:
- General WCAG accessibility (different domain)
- Neurotypical UX design
- Simple UI styling without ADHD context
ADHD Neuroscience Quick Reference
| Challenge | Design Solution |
|---|
| Working Memory (3-5 items vs 7±2) | One action per screen, wizard flows |
| Time Blindness | Visual countdowns, concrete durations |
| Task Initiation | Obvious first step, low friction |
| Dopamine Seeking | Immediate feedback, celebrations |
| Object Permanence | Everything visible, no hidden menus |
| Context Switching | Minimal transitions, inline editing |
| Rejection Sensitivity | Compassionate copy, no shame |
Core Design Principles
1. Reduce Cognitive Load (Ruthlessly)
❌ BAD: "Choose your settings" [50 checkboxes]
✅ GOOD: "Let's set this up in 3 quick steps"
Step 1: [One clear choice] → [Next]
Patterns:
- One primary action per screen
- Wizard/stepped flows over complex forms
- Progressive disclosure
- Sensible defaults pre-selected
- Persistent "You are here" indicators
2. Make Time Concrete
❌ BAD: "This will take a few minutes..."
✅ GOOD: ┌─────────────────────────┐
│ ⏱️ 2:47 remaining │
│ ████████░░░░░░░ 45% │
│ 📦 Enough time to: │
│ • Make coffee ☕ │
└─────────────────────────┘
