Micro-interactions during onboarding are not mere visual flourishes—they are behavioral levers that shape retention. This deep-dive explores how micro-animation trigger timing, specifically within the critical 200ms to 1.5s responsiveness window, directly reduces friction and elevates retention by up to 32%. Building on Tier 2’s insight that first impressions are psychologically charged moments, and extending Tier 1’s foundation on user-centered design, this guide delivers a precise, science-backed framework to map, implement, and validate