Preventing Layout Shifts

Unexpected layout movement can harm user experience. Images without known dimensions, dynamically inserted content, and late-loading fonts are common causes.

CSS properties such as aspect-ratio, reserved dimensions, and stable layout structures can reduce visual movement.

Preventing Layout Shifts
Reserve Image Space
.thumbnail {
  width: 100%;
  aspect-ratio: 16 / 9;
  object-fit: cover;
}
💡 The aspect ratio gives the browser a predictable box before the image is fully rendered.
Key Takeaways
  • Reserve space for media whenever possible.
  • Stable geometry reduces cumulative layout movement.
Knowledge Check

Which CSS property can help reserve predictable media geometry?