What Is a Heatmap?
A heatmap is a visual representation of user behavior on web pages. Warm colors (red, orange) show areas with most interaction, while cool colors (blue, green) show areas rarely seen. Heatmaps show what users actually do with your page — not what you think they do.
Types of Heatmaps
1. Click Heatmap
Shows where users click. If a button gets many clicks but no conversions, the text might be misleading. If users click a non-linked element, they expected a link.
2. Move Heatmap
Shows mouse movement paths. Studies show mouse movement correlates strongly with eye gaze. Areas where the mouse pauses more get more attention.
3. Scroll Heatmap
Shows how far users scroll. Typically 70% of users only see the top of the page. If your important content is at the bottom, it won't be seen.
How to Interpret Heatmaps
The F-Pattern
Users typically scan pages in an F-shape: reading top lines, then scanning the side. Put your most important content in these areas.
Dead Zones
Areas that receive almost no clicks or attention. Content in these areas should be removed or moved to high-traffic areas.
Misleading Clicks
Users click on non-linked elements (logos, images, headings). This means user expectations don't match your design.
Practical Use with Didka
Didka provides three heatmap types for every page:
- Select your project in Didka dashboard.
- Open the "Heatmap" section and select your page.
- Switch between click, move, and scroll heatmaps.
- Set the time period (e.g., last 7 days).
- Click any red point to see real session replays of that area.
Common Heatmap Mistakes
1. Interpreting without context: Many clicks aren't always good. The user might be confused.
2. Ignoring device differences: Mobile and desktop heatmaps are completely different. Check both separately.
3. Ignoring low traffic: Heatmaps with few visits (under 100) aren't reliable.
Summary
Heatmaps are the simplest way to see real user behavior. Combined with session replay in Didka, you see both numbers and video of user behavior. This combination is the fastest path to UX improvement.