Alternatives to Sidebars

First of all, commit to a single-column layout. It’s the only thing that works on small screens. Second, think long and hard about whether or not your sidebar content is effective below the main content. If it’s related content, I’m gonna argue that below is less effective and I’ll tell ya why.

Related content isn’t just for users who read all the way to the end of your content. If you want a lower bounce rate, related content is even more important for users who decide the page they’re on is not the one they’re looking for… but another page on your site might be.

Alternative #1 - Categorical

Link up to any category pages that are related to the content. These links will help define the content for new visitors, so they’re at home right below the headline, and they’re much more useful that your standard breadcrumb trail.

Alternative #2 - Contextual

If you’re related content algorithm is solid, or if a human editor is providing these links, then place them right in the body text. They’ll act kinda like footnotes, just make sure your design doesn’t create any horizontal barriers that might discourage users from scrolling.

Alternative #3 - Consistent

Finally (and this is the really crazy one), if you’re sure your related content works below the main content, just leave it there on every screen! Aren't those wide margins lovely?

Alternatives to Sidebars

Alternative #1 - Categorical

Alternative #2 - Contextual

Alternative #3 - Consistent

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