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Pagination Playground

Contextual Pagination

About This Pattern

Best for

Articles, tutorials, stories, documentation, and any sequential content meant to be consumed in order.

Advantages

  • Simple and minimal user interface
  • Works well when content is sequential (e.g., articles, tutorials)
  • Less cognitive load and distraction-free
  • Good for mobile interfaces
  • Clear linear progression through content

Disadvantages

  • No quick access to specific pages
  • Frustrating for large datasets (must click many times)
  • Users can't skip to the end easily
  • No overview of total content length
  • Can feel limiting for exploration

Best Practices

  • Use for linear flows (articles, stories, tutorials)
  • Label links clearly ("Next Article: Title")
  • Combine with breadcrumbs or progress indicators if possible
  • Show previews of previous/next content when helpful
  • Ensure good keyboard navigation support (arrow keys)
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Quick Navigation (Enhancement)

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Note: Quick jump is typically not included in pure contextual pagination

💡 Tip: Use keyboard arrows (← →) for navigation