Why Is Consistency Important?

Question

We usually appreciate consistency when working with code and complex systems. Inconsistencies tend to trigger why/what/when-style questions that add to cognitive load.Is there any good research on the benefits of consistency and its effects on cognitive complexity, especially when it comes to engineering?

PaulHoule · Accepted Answer

Don't psychologists do all kinds of tests where they show you consistent and/or inconsistent stimuli and observe how that affects your judgement and the time it takes to make your judgement?

grzm · Answer

What do you consider the alternative and why would that be better?