Külgmenüüd

Külgmenüüd, often translated as "side menus" or "navigation drawers," are a common user interface element in software applications, particularly on mobile devices and web applications. They typically appear as a panel that slides out from the side of the screen, usually the left or right edge, and contains navigation links or other important options. The primary purpose of a külgmenüü is to provide a compact and organized way to present a list of options that might otherwise clutter the main screen.

Accessing a külgmenüü is usually achieved by tapping an icon, often represented by three horizontal lines (a "hamburger" icon), located in the application's header or toolbar. Once opened, the külgmenüü overlays or pushes the main content aside, revealing the navigation items. These items can include links to different sections of the application, user profile settings, account management, help sections, and other essential functionalities.

The design and implementation of külgmenüüd can vary. Some may be simple lists of text links, while others might incorporate icons, user avatars, or even more complex interactive elements. While they offer a space-saving solution, külgmenüüd can sometimes make navigation less discoverable, as the options are hidden until explicitly revealed. Therefore, their effectiveness often depends on the specific application's needs and the user's familiarity with this UI pattern.