Layout Selection

Choose layout from the information pattern, not from what sounds visually cool.

Quick Mapping

Information pattern	Layout
two states in contrast	binary-comparison
multi-factor comparison	comparison-matrix
steps over time	linear-progression
problem to solution	bridge
filtering or conversion	funnel
dense guide with many modules	dense-modules
visible vs hidden	iceberg
multiple topics / overview	bento-grid
priority levels / pyramid	hierarchical-layers
categories / taxonomy	tree-branching
central concept + related items	hub-spoke
exploded view / anatomy	structural-breakdown
metrics / KPIs	dashboard
categorized collection	periodic-table
narrative / sequence	comic-strip
plot arc / tension	story-mountain
interconnected parts	jigsaw
overlapping concepts	venn-diagram
journey / milestones	winding-roadmap
cycle / recurring process	circular-flow
spatial relationships	isometric-map

Density Rule

• 1-2 big ideas -> avoid dense-modules
• 3-5 steps or phases -> linear-progression
• 2 sides with mirrored logic -> binary-comparison
• 6-7 compact information blocks -> dense-modules
• 3+ items across multiple factors -> comparison-matrix
• many discrete categories -> periodic-table or bento-grid

Escalation Rule

If the content feels crowded inside a simple layout:

1. reduce the content
2. or switch to a denser layout

Do not keep stuffing more text into the wrong structure.

Practical Advice

Open the relevant layout reference when:

• the content is complex enough to justify a real page architecture
• the first draft keeps collapsing into clutter
• you need to explain why one layout is better than another