Describe the challenges first-time users face when using an information-exploration system. Propose how these challenges can be overcome.

What will be an ideal response?

First-time users of an information-exploration system (whether they have little or much task knowledge) often struggle to understand what they see on the display while keeping in mind their information needs. They will be distracted if they have to learn elaborate query languages or master complex interactive controls.

They need the low cognitive burdens of the simple keyword search functionality provided by menu and direct-manipulation designs. As users gain experience with the interface, they can request additional features by adjusting control panels or manipulating previews and overviews of the information available.