What are F-pattern and Z-pattern layouts?

These are common eye-tracking patterns showing how users scan webpages. F-pattern: users scan horizontally across the top, down the left side, then across again - forming an F shape. Common for text-heavy pages. Z-pattern: eyes move top-left to top-right, diagonally down, then left to right again - forming a Z. Effective for simple pages with minimal text and clear visual hierarchy. We use these patterns when designing layouts. Important elements go where eyes naturally land. Headlines, navigation, and calls-to-action are positioned along these scan paths. On F-pattern pages, we put key information in the left column. On Z-pattern pages, we guide users from hero text to CTA button following the Z. Understanding reading patterns helps create intuitive, high-converting layouts.