Optimal Onboarding Flow: Best Practices For User Engagement

Onboarding is a critical stage in the user journey, and implementing a smooth and effective onboarding flow can significantly impact user retention and engagement. In this article, we'll dive deep into the best practices for creating an optimal onboarding flow, ensuring your users have a positive first experience with your app.

1. First-Ever App Open (Cold Start)

First impressions matter, especially when a user opens your app for the first time. A well-designed cold start experience can set the tone for the entire user journey. Let's explore the elements of an optimal cold start onboarding flow.

Full-Screen Splash #1 (1.5–2 seconds max)

The initial splash screen is your chance to make a memorable first impression. Keep it brief and visually appealing. Display your brand visual prominently, accompanied by a subtle tagline that communicates your core value proposition. For example, a tagline like “One-tap apps that already know you” can be effective. The splash screen should load quickly (ideally within 1.5–2 seconds) to avoid user frustration. A well-timed and visually engaging splash screen can capture the user's attention and pique their interest in exploring the app further.

Onboarding Carousel (3–4 pages max)

Immediately after the splash screen, introduce an onboarding carousel. This carousel should consist of a maximum of 3–4 pages, each designed to convey specific information concisely. Each page must be carefully crafted to deliver maximum impact.

• Page 1: Core value proposition + big bold benefit.

  This page should clearly articulate the primary value your app offers. Highlight the most significant benefit users will gain from using your app. Use bold text and visuals to emphasize the key message. A compelling value proposition is crucial for capturing the user’s attention and motivating them to continue.

• Page 2: Social proof or how it works.

  Build trust and credibility by showcasing social proof, such as user testimonials, ratings, or the number of users. Alternatively, explain how your app works in a simple and intuitive manner. Providing social proof can reassure users and encourage them to explore further, while a clear explanation of functionality can reduce any initial hesitation.

• Page 3: Permission request (notifications) – critical for retention.

  Request necessary permissions, such as notifications, at an opportune moment. Clearly explain why the permission is needed and how it will benefit the user. Requesting permissions at the right time, with a clear explanation of the value, can significantly improve user retention. This is a crucial step, especially for apps that rely on notifications to engage users.

• Page 4 (optional): “Get started” with big CTA.

  Include a call-to-action (CTA) to encourage users to take the next step. Use a large, visually distinct button to draw attention to the CTA. A clear and compelling CTA can guide users towards the next stage of the onboarding process.

Half-Sheet Sign-Up Modal

At the bottom of the last carousel page or after the carousel ends, implement a half-sheet sign-up modal. This is considered the gold standard for onboarding flow as it provides a non-intrusive way for users to sign up. The key is to make the sign-up process as seamless as possible, reducing any friction that might cause users to drop off. This modal should slide up from the bottom of the screen, partially obscuring the main content, but still allowing users to glimpse the app's interface.

2. The Half-Sheet Sign-Up Modal (MUST be a bottom half-sheet, not full screen)

The half-sheet sign-up modal is a crucial component of a high-conversion onboarding flow. The order and presentation of sign-up options significantly impact user engagement. Let's delve into the best practices for designing this modal.

Options from top to bottom (exact order matters!):

1. Continue with Apple (largest button, highest conversion)

   Place the “Continue with Apple” option at the top and use the largest button for this option. Apple Sign-in often yields the highest conversion rates due to its seamless integration and user trust. The prominence of the Apple Sign-in button can significantly boost sign-up rates.

2. Continue with Google (if you support it)

   If your app supports Google Sign-in, place it below the Apple option. Google Sign-in is another popular and convenient option for users. Offering multiple sign-in options caters to a wider range of user preferences.

3. Continue with Email / Phone

   Offer an email or phone sign-up option as a fallback. Some users prefer traditional sign-up methods. Providing this option ensures inclusivity for all users, regardless of their preferred method.

4. Small “Continue as Guest” or “Maybe later” (bottom left, gray text)

   Include a subtle “Continue as Guest” or “Maybe later” option in a less prominent position (bottom left, gray text). This allows users to explore the app without immediately committing to sign-up. Offering a guest option can reduce the initial barrier to entry and encourage exploration.

Key rules:

• If user taps “Continue with Apple” → instantly authenticate with Face ID → auto-create account → straight into feed.

  Streamline the Apple Sign-in process by utilizing Face ID for instant authentication and automatically creating an account. Users should be seamlessly directed to the app's feed after sign-up. A frictionless sign-up process is crucial for maximizing conversion rates.

• If user taps email → one-field email input (no password yet – use magic link or OTP).

  For email sign-ups, simplify the process by requesting only the email address initially. Implement a magic link or OTP (one-time password) for verification. Minimizing the initial input fields can improve sign-up completion rates.

• “Maybe later” / “Continue as Guest” → close sheet, go to feed BUT show a persistent small floating “Complete your account” banner or tab bar badge.

  If a user chooses to continue as a guest, close the sign-up sheet and direct them to the app's feed. However, display a persistent reminder, such as a small floating banner or tab bar badge, encouraging them to complete their account later. Subtle reminders can gently nudge users towards sign-up without being intrusive.

3. Second Open & Subsequent Opens (Until Account Created)

Consistency is key in reinforcing the value of creating an account. How you greet users on their second and subsequent app opens can significantly impact their decision to sign up. Let's look at strategies for the optimal second and subsequent app open experience.

Day 2–7 (if no account yet):

• On app open → show Second Splash (different creative) for 1 second.

  Display a different splash screen (Second Splash) for a brief duration (1 second) upon app open. This splash screen should maintain the branding but offer a fresh visual. A subtle change in visuals can keep the experience engaging without being disruptive.

• Then immediately trigger the same half-sheet again (but now with smart copy):

  Immediately after the Second Splash, re-trigger the half-sheet sign-up modal. However, use smart copy that is tailored to users who have already experienced the app. Contextual messaging can be more effective in driving sign-ups.

  • “Welcome back! Pick up where you left off”.

    A welcoming message that acknowledges the user's return and encourages them to resume their activity.

  • “Create an account to save your progress”.

    Highlight the benefits of creating an account, such as saving progress and personalizing the experience.

  • Add a small incentive: “Join 50M users” or “Unlock saving favorites”.

    Include a compelling incentive, such as joining a large community or unlocking valuable features.

• After 3–4 triggers → reduce frequency (once every 2–3 days).

  If the user hasn't signed up after 3–4 triggers, reduce the frequency of the sign-up prompt to avoid overwhelming them. Balancing persistence with respect for user preferences is crucial.

• Never show more than ~7–10 times total (then permanently suppress)

  Set a limit on the total number of times the sign-up prompt is displayed (e.g., 7–10 times). After reaching this limit, permanently suppress the prompt to avoid frustrating the user. Respecting user boundaries is essential for maintaining a positive experience.

4. When to Show “Create Account” Prompt Again

The timing of sign-up prompts is crucial. Overly aggressive prompts can lead to user churn, while infrequent prompts can result in missed opportunities. A strategic approach to triggering sign-up prompts is essential for optimizing conversions.

Recommended trigger cadence (don’t be aggressive):

• Session 1: First open → after onboarding carousel.

  Trigger the sign-up prompt after the initial onboarding carousel.

• Session 2–4: Every cold open (with second splash).

  Show the prompt on every cold open of the app (with the Second Splash).

• Session 5+: Only when user does a “save-like” action (likes, saves, follows, creates content) → immediate half-sheet with contextual copy: → “Sign in to save this” or “Create account to follow @xyz”.

  Trigger the prompt only when the user performs a high-intent action, such as liking, saving, following, or creating content. Use contextual copy that directly relates to the action, such as “Sign in to save this” or “Create account to follow @xyz”. Contextual prompts are often more effective in driving sign-ups.

• After user has done 5–7 high-intent actions without account → show once per day max.

  If the user has performed a significant number of high-intent actions without creating an account, show the prompt once per day at most. Avoid overwhelming the user with frequent prompts. Limiting frequency can prevent user fatigue and maintain a positive experience.

5. Bonus 2025 Tricks That Boost Conversion 15–30%

Stay ahead of the curve with these advanced strategies that can significantly boost your onboarding conversion rates. These techniques leverage user behavior and personalize the onboarding experience.

• If user closes the sheet 2+ times → next time show a 3-option full-screen interstitial (not half-sheet) with bigger incentive:

  • “Unlock unlimited likes”.
  • “Save your drafts”.
  • “Get personalized For You”.

  If a user repeatedly dismisses the half-sheet sign-up prompt, try a full-screen interstitial with stronger incentives. This approach offers a clear value proposition to encourage sign-ups.

• Use Apple Sign-in + Hide My Email → conversion is ~65–80% vs ~30% for email+password.

  Leverage Apple Sign-in with the “Hide My Email” feature. This combination often results in significantly higher conversion rates compared to traditional email and password sign-ups. Privacy-focused options can build user trust and increase sign-up rates.

• Pre-fill name from Apple/Google if possible

  Pre-fill user information, such as name, from Apple or Google Sign-in, whenever possible. This streamlines the sign-up process and reduces friction. A simplified sign-up process can improve completion rates.

• After sign-up → instant personalized feed (no blank state)

  After sign-up, immediately present a personalized feed to the user. Avoid a blank state by populating the feed with relevant content. A personalized experience from the outset can significantly improve user engagement.

Summary – Exact Flow

To recap, here’s a concise overview of the optimal onboarding flow:

By implementing these best practices, you can create an onboarding flow that maximizes user engagement, drives sign-ups, and sets the stage for long-term success. Remember, the first impression is crucial, and a well-designed onboarding experience can make all the difference.

In conclusion, creating an optimal onboarding flow is not just about signing up new users; it's about setting the stage for a long-lasting and valuable relationship. By implementing these strategies, you can significantly improve user engagement and retention. For more insights on user onboarding, check out Userpilot's Guide to User Onboarding.