Use clear and simple language that is easy to understand. For example, Instead of "utilize," use "use". Plainlanguage.gov
Use active voice to make sentences more direct and easier to understand. For example, "The team completed the project" instead of "The project was completed by the team". Grammarly: Active vs. Passive Voice
Use consistent terminology throughout your content. For example, If you refer to a "course" initially, continue using "course" rather than switching to "class".
Font and Text Formatting
Use readable, sans-serif fonts such as Arial, Calibri, or Verdana. For example, use Arial for body text. WebAim: Typefaces and Fonts
Use at least 12pt for body text (14 or 16pt recommended) to ensure readability. For example, set the main content of your document to 14pt Calibri. Microsoft: How to Change the Font Size
Avoid using all capital letters, which can be hard to read. For example, use "Important Notice" instead of "IMPORTANT NOTICE".
Abbreviations and Acronyms
Spell out abbreviations and acronyms on first use, followed by the abbreviation in parentheses. For example, "World Health Organization (WHO)". WCAG: Abbreviations
Use abbreviations and acronyms consistently throughout the document. For example, if you abbreviate "United States" as "US", do not switch to "U.S." later.
Time, Dates, Months, and Years
Use the 12-hour clock format with AM and PM or the 24-hour clock format consistently. For example, "3:00 PM" or "15:00".
Use a clear and consistent date format, such as "Month Day, Year" or "Day Month Year". For example, "January 15, 2024" or "15 January 2024".
Avoid formats like "01/15/2024" that can be confusing due to different regional formats. For example, use "January 15, 2024" instead of "01/15/2024".
Do not repeat the use of a.m. and p.m. when all times listed are the same. Only use a.m. or p.m. once after the last time listed. For example, The party is from 2:00 until 5:00 PM.
Use "to" or "through" or "and" or "until" instead of dashes, as dashes are not read by screen readers. For example, The party is from 2:00 until 5:00 PM.
Write out days of the week and the names of months fully, as screen readers are unpredictable as to whether they will recognize abbreviations and read it correctly. For example, The party is Thursday, July 4, 2024 from 2:00 until 5:00 PM.
Additional Guidelines
Use consistent capitalization rules, especially for headings and titles. For example, Use title case for headings: "Creating Accessible Content".
Write out numbers one through nine and use numerals for 10 and above. For example, "Three participants" and "15 students".
Use bullet points for lists without a specific order and numbered lists for sequential items. For example, use bullets for a list of items such as fruits and a numbered list for steps in a process.
Use descriptive link text that clearly indicates the link’s destination. For exampke, "Read more about accessibility guidelines" instead of "Click here".
Avoid using jargon or technical terms without explanations. For example, instead of "Our API integrates seamlessly", use "Our Application Programming Interface (API) integrates seamlessly".
