Want to build a UX portfolio that actually gets you interviews?
It starts with a strong case study.
I created this outline for one of my mentorship clients, but it was too good not to share. If you’re a UX or product designer on the job hunt, this framework can help you tell your story clearly, highlight your impact, and stand out from the crowd.
The UX Case Study Formula
Here’s the structure I recommend for every case study—plus a few pro tips to make yours even stronger:
🔹 Background / Context
What was the project about? What was your role? Timeline?
👉 Tip: Keep this to 3–4 sentences. Add a visual of the final product to set the stage.
🔹 The Problem
What problem were you solving, and why did it matter?
👉 Tip: 1–2 clear sentences. Bonus points for before screenshots or user quotes that show the pain point.
🔹 Discovery
How did you get up to speed?
👉 Tip: Share research highlights and key findings. Show evidence of collaboration with teammates and stakeholders.
🔹 Design & Iteration
How did you approach the design?
👉 Tip: Include early sketches, whiteboards, and messy Figma explorations. It shows your thought process—not just the polished final.
🔹 Testing (+ More Iteration)
Who did you share your designs with, and what did you learn?
👉 Tip: Summarize the feedback you got and how you incorporated it. Be honest about what worked and what didn’t.
🔹 Impact / Outcomes
What happened because of your work?
👉 Tip: Even if the product didn’t launch, focus on what you learned, how you moved it forward, and the value you contributed.
A Few Final Reminders
✅ Make it scannable. Use visuals, headings, and clear type hierarchy to guide the reader.
✅ Tell a story. Walk through the project step by step. Make it easy to follow.
✅ Be selective. You don’t need to show everything—just enough to highlight the problem, your thinking, and the result.
Want the Full Template?
If you’re polishing your UX or product design portfolio and want a copy of the full template—with extra tips and examples—you can grab it for free here:
👉 Get the free UX case study template
You’ve got this. 🚀
💚
—Maria
