Question 1

Empty vs Skeleton: which should I use?

Accepted Answer

Truly no data vs data is still loading. Prefer Empty State when: Zero results; First-run with CTA. Prefer Skeleton Screen when: Waiting on network; First paint. Meaning: Empty State — Finished loading; zero items.; Skeleton Screen — Not finished loading yet.. UI: Empty State — Illustration + reason + CTA.; Skeleton Screen — Placeholder shapes of the future layout.. Mistake: Empty State — Showing empty while still loading.; Skeleton Screen — Leaving skeleton up forever..

Question 2

Do you already know there is nothing to show?

Accepted Answer

If yes, lean toward Empty State; if no, lean toward Skeleton Screen.

Question 3

Are you still waiting for the server?

Accepted Answer

If yes, lean toward Skeleton Screen; if no, lean toward Empty State.

Dimension	Empty State	Skeleton Screen
Meaning	Finished loading; zero items.	Not finished loading yet.
UI	Illustration + reason + CTA.	Placeholder shapes of the future layout.
Mistake	Showing empty while still loading.	Leaving skeleton up forever.

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