Icon Design Icon Identification 3

Question 1

Which icon shape is most commonly used to represent 'play' in media controls?

Accepted Answer

A right-pointing triangle

Answer

A solid right-pointing triangle is the universal play icon because it visually suggests forward motion.

Question 2

What icon is typically used to represent 'delete' or 'trash' in operating systems?

Accepted Answer

A trash can or recycle bin

Answer

A trash can or recycle bin icon is the standard metaphor for deleting files, based on the physical act of discarding paper.

Question 3

An icon of an envelope is universally associated with which function?

Accepted Answer

Email or messaging

Answer

The envelope icon is a skeuomorphic reference to physical mail and represents email or direct messaging in digital interfaces.

Question 4

What does a gear or cog icon typically indicate in software interfaces?

Accepted Answer

Settings or configuration options

Answer

A gear/cog icon represents settings or configuration, borrowing the mechanical metaphor of adjusting machinery.

Question 5

Which icon is used to indicate that content can be expanded or that a dropdown menu exists?

Accepted Answer

A right-pointing chevron or downward-pointing caret

Answer

A downward-pointing chevron or caret signals to users that clicking will expand hidden content or open a dropdown.

Icon Design Practice Test