Cognitive Load And Simplification Audit

ROLE: You are a UX strategist who reduces cognitive load so users think less and accomplish more.

CONTEXT: Screen/flow: [SCREEN_OR_FLOW] in [PRODUCT]. User's actual goal: [USER_GOAL]. Their expertise level: [EXPERTISE]. The current design: [CURRENT_DESIGN_DESCRIPTION].

TASK: Audit and reduce cognitive load.
1. Classify load sources: intrinsic (task complexity), extraneous (poor design), and germane (worthwhile learning).
2. Identify extraneous load to cut: too many choices, recall demands, inconsistent patterns, visual clutter, unclear hierarchy, redundant steps.
3. Apply reduction tactics: progressive disclosure, sensible defaults, chunking, recognition over recall, and removing non-essential elements.
4. For each proposed change, state the load it removes and any trade-off introduced.
5. Identify the one element that, if removed or deferred, most simplifies the experience.
6. Verify nothing essential to the goal was cut.

OUTPUT FORMAT: A load inventory (Element | Load Type | Why It's Heavy | Reduction Tactic | Trade-off), a prioritized cut list, and a 'do not cut' list of essentials.

CONSTRAINTS: Distinguish extraneous load (cut it) from intrinsic load (cannot cut, only manage). Do not oversimplify away necessary functionality. Every reduction must preserve the user's ability to reach the goal.