Information Scent

A concept from information foraging theory that describes the strength of cues in a user interface that indicate whether a particular path (link, button, menu item) will lead to desired information or functionality. Strong information scent means users can easily predict what they will find by following a navigation path; weak or low information scent means users cannot tell what will happen when they interact with a UI element. Low information scent is particularly problematic for older adults and users with cognitive disabilities, who may not realize that certain functions exist because the visual or textual cues are too subtle, ambiguous, or hidden in nested menus. In accessible design, ensuring strong information scent through clear labels, descriptive icons, and visible navigation paths reduces cognitive load and supports independent use.