This page provides a basic set of guidelines for creating accessible content.
(Note: Content on this page was prepared with the assistance of AI)
Content Structure & Headings
- Use headings hierarchically: Organize content with one H1 per page and then arrange subsequent headings (H2, H3, etc.) logically based on the structure of the content.
- Don't skip levels: Avoid skipping heading levels (e.g., going from H2 to H4).
- Use headings for structure, not appearance: Choose the appropriate heading level based on its role in the content, not how you want it to look.
Links
- Descriptive Link Text: Make sure the link text alone conveys the meaning of the link.
- Avoid ambiguous phrasing: Do not use phrases like "Click here" or "Read More".
- Use text, not raw URLs: Use meaningful text for links instead of displaying raw URLs.
Images & Media
Provide descriptive alt text:
Give informative images descriptive alternative text that accurately explains their purpose or content.
Mark decorative images:
Use empty alt text (alt="") for images that are purely decorative.
Provide captions and transcripts:
Ensure all media containing audio has accurate, synchronized captions and a full text transcript.
Describe complex images:
For complex images, provide a more detailed explanation in the surrounding text.
Readability & Clarity
- Use simple language: Write in a clear, simple style, ideally at a high school reading level.
- Use lists: Employ bulleted or numbered lists to organize information.
- Use bold and italics sparingly: Highlight important text with bold or italics only when necessary; use proper heading structure for emphasis.
Color & Contrast
- Ensure sufficient contrast: Use colors with enough contrast between text and background to ensure readability.
- Check contrast ratios: Aim for a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text.
- Use color contrast checkers: Utilize browser extensions or tools to check contrast ratios.