design_patterns

Applies visual hierarchy, z-index, shadow, animation, and spacing rules to UI design.

Updated Jan 14, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/jvsandhu/agentic-skills --skill design-patterns-jvsandhu
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: design_patterns
Source: https://github.com/jvsandhu/agentic-skills/tree/main/skills/design_patterns
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/jvsandhu/agentic-skills --skill design-patterns-jvsandhu

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve? Inconsistent layering, arbitrary animation timings, and uneven spacing make interfaces feel unpolished and hard to navigate. This Skill provides concrete scales and rules for visual hierarchy so UI decisions follow a repeatable system instead of guesswork. ## Core Features & Use Cases - Z-Index and Elevation Scales: Standardized stacking values (-1 to 100) and shadow levels (xs to xl) for dropdowns, modals, tooltips, and toasts. - Animation Timing System: Duration scale from 75ms to 500ms with easing function guidance for hover, modal, and page transition states. - Spacing and Readability Rules: Content density tiers (tight to spacious), optimal reading widths, focus-visible styling, and a three-phase workflow covering hierarchy, interaction feedback, and accessibility validation. - Use Case: When building a dashboard with modals and dropdown menus, use this Skill to assign correct z-index layers, pick 200ms ease-out transitions, and verify focus rings and 44px touch targets. ## Quick Start Review my dashboard layout and apply the correct z-index scale, shadow elevation, and animation durations for its modals, dropdowns, and buttons.

Frequently Asked Questions about design_patterns

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I manage z-index for modals and dropdowns in CSS?

Use a fixed z-index scale instead of arbitrary values: 10 for dropdowns, 20 for sticky headers, 30 for modal backdrops, 40 for modal content, 50 for tooltips, and 100 for toast notifications. This prevents stacking conflicts as the UI grows.

What animation duration should I use for UI transitions?

Use 150ms for hover states, 200ms as the default for most transitions, 300ms for dropdowns and modals, and 500ms for page transitions. Pair these with ease-out for hover and click interactions and ease-in-out for modals.

What is the difference between design patterns and architecture patterns?

Design patterns here cover UI/UX concerns like z-index, shadows, animation, and spacing. System architecture patterns such as microservices, CQRS, and database selection belong to a separate architecture skill, not visual design.

How much white space should a web page have?

Match spacing to content density: 8-12px for data tables, 16-24px as the default, 32-48px for marketing pages, and 64px or more for premium layouts. Keep reading width between 60-75 characters for body text.

How do I make focus states visible for keyboard navigation?

Apply a :focus-visible style with a 2px solid outline in your primary color and a 2px offset. Then verify by tabbing through the page that the focus ring appears on every interactive element.