Directional Cues
Directional cues are visual signals, such as arrows, lines, gestures, or a person's gaze, that subtly point a visitor's attention toward a specific element like a call-to-action or form.
In depth
Cues fall into two families. Explicit cues are obvious pointers like arrows, pointing fingers, or a leading line that physically aims at the target. Implicit cues are subtler: a model in a hero image looking toward the headline, the diagonal of a product photo, or a path of whitespace that funnels the eye. Both exploit the fact that humans instinctively follow gaze and motion, so a well-placed cue can lift attention on a CTA without the visitor ever noticing the nudge.
The usual pitfall is pointing at the wrong thing or creating cue conflict, where several arrows and gazes compete and cancel out. Cues should reinforce, not fragment, the intended path. In a quiz funnel, directional cues keep momentum: a downward arrow draws the eye from the headline to the Start button, the Next button sits where the eye naturally lands after reading the options, and on the result page a subtle line or gaze guides the lead from their score toward the booking or signup call-to-action.
Example in practice
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between explicit and implicit cues?
Explicit cues are obvious pointers like arrows or pointing hands, while implicit cues are subtle signals such as a person's gaze or a leading line. Both guide attention, but implicit cues feel more natural and less salesy.
Do gaze cues really change behavior?
Yes. People instinctively follow where a face is looking, so pointing a subject's eyes toward your CTA can shift attention to it. Many A/B tests show measurable lifts from gaze-directed hero images.
How many cues should one page have?
Usually just enough to reinforce a single path. Too many arrows and gazes create conflict and dilute focus, so favor one clear cue toward the primary action per view.