Input Amnesia

Input amnesia is a ux design term. It is when a user makes a wrong input due to being accustomed to a similar apparatus they were just using or are familiar with. Consider some examples.

- Pressing the wrong button in a video game because a previous game you played uses that bottom for the desired function. In Skyrim, players sometimes accidentally steal/pick up items because the A/X button (used to pick up items) in other video games is often used to jump.

- A manual driver accidentally reaching for the stick shift in an automatic car.

Being aware of input amnesia helps designers make better designs.

"Sometimes I use my key fob that opens my Acura for Honda. My Honda doesn't open with a key fob. I am standing there pressing my Acura's unlock bottom instantly realizing I am a klutz. This example of input amnesia is caused by me being used to similar input but by habit choosing a wrong one".