# Loading — Design system

A loading indicator is a visual element that communicates to users that content or an action is being processed. It provides feedback through animations like spinning wheels, progress bars, or skeleton screens to maintain user engagement during wait times.

Source: https://www.checklist.design/design-system/loading

## Items

### Visual indicator
A clear representation that content is loading or in progress of change

### Text
Explaining the loading state

_Tip: Let the standard 'loading' text be a fallback, and try to be more specific e.g. 'adding your contacts, syncing your emails'_

### Time
Determine how long the time between two actions must be to require a loading component

_Tip: Don't interrupt two actions that instantly transition, but if there's a known 5 second period between two actions then the component is appropriate_

### Accessibility
Ensure your loading state can be clearly seen

_Tip: Place the loading indicator in a container to ensure accessibility, regardless of background If the loading indicator is on its own, create a version appropriate for light/dark backgrounds_

### Visuals
Entertain the user with an illustration during the loading state

## License for the Checklist Design collection

Checklist Design collection: https://github.com/Checklist-Design/skills
Snapshot: bfae71e507b1b7c03c12e0756402b60eb80f5d14 · Imported: 2026-11-12
Republished under the MIT License. Original checklist text belongs to Checklist Design.

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