What is progressive disclosure?

Users appreciate a wide range of options but also crave simplicity — they don’t want to overthink tasks. Progressive disclosure balances these needs by revealing information gradually. Basic features are displayed first, while more advanced options are accessible only when users request them. For example, a Settings page may show essential settings upfront, like account, appearance, and security options. Clicking "Advanced settings" could reveal less frequently used options, such as accessibility and reset actions, which can then be hidden again. This technique keeps interfaces clean, allowing users to engage only with the features they need.