First Principles: Proximity – Group Related Elements

🔗 Proximity – Group Related Elements

Things that belong together should be close together.
Things that don't belong together should be apart.

That's the principle of proximity.

Why Proximity Matters

Your brain automatically groups things that are close together. When you use proximity correctly:

• Related information feels connected
• Content is easier to scan
• Customers understand faster

👉 Proximity creates visual relationships without words.

Proximity in Digital Marketing

Common proximity mistakes:

• Price placed far from product name
• CTA button separated from its description
• Contact info scattered across the page
• Related features listed far apart

Quick fixes:

• Group product name + price + CTA together
• Keep related features in one section
• Place contact info in one clear block
• Use whitespace to separate unrelated sections

The Business Impact

Proper proximity:

1. Reduces confusion: Customers understand relationships instantly
2. Speeds decisions: Less mental effort = faster action
3. Increases conversions: Clear grouping guides to purchase

👉 Proximity = Clarity → Clarity = Speed → Speed = Sales.

Takeaway for SMB Owners

Review your designs and ask:

• ✅ Are related items grouped together?
• ✅ Is there enough space between unrelated sections?
• ✅ Can customers scan and understand quickly?

Group smart. Sell more.