Onboarding

Onboarding is a special type of story that opens on top of other user screens in the app. This is usually a short introduction and explanation of the application's features, helping to guide new users and motivate them in further active use of the specific app.

Prohibit closing option in story settings might be useful in this case, so the users of your app won't skip the important information.

Function

Onboarding Stories introduce essential features, interface logic, or key benefits during a user’s first session. They reduce uncertainty, shorten the learning curve, and improve first-day retention. Because onboarding appears as a Story overlay, it reaches every new user immediately upon opening the app.

Types of Onboarding

There are three main types of onboarding used in mobile apps: functional, progressive, and interactive.

1. Functional onboarding is the most common format. It introduces users to the main features of the app and demonstrates how to perform essential actions.

In a banking app, for example, it might explain how to open a deposit, view account balances, or transfer funds. This type focuses on clarity and speed, helping users understand the core logic of the product within the first few screens.

2. Progressive onboarding reveals information step by step as users explore the app. Instead of showing everything at once, it provides tips or Stories only when a feature becomes relevant.

For instance, a delivery service might display a short hint about loyalty points right after the first completed order. This approach keeps communication contextual and avoids overwhelming new users.

3. Interactive onboarding engages users directly through polls, clickable buttons, or mini-tasks. It turns the introduction into an active learning experience, where users perform actions instead of just reading instructions.

A retail app, for example, might use a short interactive Story that lets users tap to discover product categories or claim a welcome bonus.

To sum up, each type can be used separately or combined within a single app, depending on the goals of the product team. Together, they form a flexible system that helps users learn, explore, and take action from the very first session.

Best Practices

1. Keep onboarding short (3–5 slides).
2. Use clear visuals, icons, and animations to illustrate key actions.
3. Highlight only the most important functions or value points.
4. Combine onboarding with contextual hints or later tips for returning users.
5. Track completion and retention metrics to evaluate effectiveness.