The path to becoming a UX designer can feel overwhelming, but the most foundational knowledge is available for free, right on YouTube. Forget scattered tutorials; the key is to learn from credible sources that provide a structured understanding of core principles, not just software tutorials.

This curated list of videos and channels covers the essential "What," "Why," and "How" of UX design, setting you up with the right knowledge framework from day one.

The Foundations: Defining the Practice

Before you open Figma, you need the theory. These videos define the scope and language of the profession:

  • What is UX? by NN/g (Nielsen Norman Group): Start here. NN/g is the gold standard for usability research. This video sets the definitive context for User Experience, separating fact from buzzword.
  • Don Norman: The term “UX” by NN/g: Hear directly from the person who coined the term. Understanding the original intent of "UX" is crucial for any serious designer.
  • UX vs UI by AJ&Smart: This video clearly articulates the difference between User Experience (the strategy and research) and User Interface (the visual execution), clarifying two of the most confused terms in the industry.

Core Skills: Principles and Practice

These resources move beyond definition and teach you the essential skills and frameworks used in daily practice:

  • The 10 Usability Heuristics by NN/g (Playlist): Jakob Nielsen's Heuristics are the foundational rules for effective interface design. Watching this playlist is mandatory for evaluating and designing usable products.
  • How to conduct user interviews by CareerFoundry: User research is the backbone of UX. This video teaches the practical skills necessary to talk to users effectively, gather unbiased insights, and avoid leading questions.
  • Information Architecture: 3 key models by NN/g: Learn how to structure content logically, making products easy to navigate. Understanding IA models is key for building complex systems.
  • How to wireframe by Jesse Showwalter: Master the low-fidelity step of design. Wireframing is about structure and function, not aesthetics, and this video guides you through the process.

Start your UX journey by diving into these highly valuable, free educational resources. Consistency and quality knowledge will build a solid career foundation.