Critique of Excessive Icon Usage in Menu Design

Summary

The article critiques the design trend of placing icons next to every menu item by default, using Google Sheets as a primary example. The author argues that this approach creates visual noise and reduces usability rather than enhancing it. While acknowledging that icons can be useful in specific contexts (like distinguishing similar actions or aiding recognition), the author advocates for a more thoughtful, selective approach to icon usage in UI design where icons should serve a clear purpose rather than being applied universally.