How can you make your website's content easy to scan?

1 Use clear and concise headings

Headings are one of the most important elements for scannability. They help users navigate your content, understand the main points, and decide what to read next. To make your headings clear and concise, use descriptive and relevant keywords, avoid jargon and vague terms, and keep them short and consistent. You can also use different levels of headings (H1, H2, H3, etc.) to create a hierarchy and structure for your content.

2 Break up your text with white space and visual elements

Another way to make your content easy to scan is to break up your text with white space and visual elements. White space is the empty space between and around your text, images, and other elements. It helps create contrast, balance, and focus for your content. Visual elements, such as images, charts, graphs, icons, and videos, can also enhance your content by adding interest, variety, and clarity. They can also convey information more effectively than text alone. However, make sure that your visual elements are relevant, high-quality, and optimized for web performance.

3 Use lists and tables to organize and summarize information

Lists and tables are useful tools to organize and summarize information in a scannable way. They help users see the key points, compare and contrast data, and scan for specific details. To make your lists and tables scannable, use bullet points or numbers for lists, and clear labels and headings for tables. You can also use

tags for code blocks, if you are sharing technical information. Avoid using long sentences or paragraphs in your lists and tables, and use formatting, such as bold, italic, or underline, to highlight important information.
###### Write short and simple sentences and paragraphs
The length and complexity of your sentences and paragraphs can also affect the scannability of your content. Users tend to scan rather than read long and complex sentences and paragraphs, which can make them lose interest or miss important information. To write short and simple sentences and paragraphs, use active voice, avoid unnecessary words, and use punctuation and transitions to create flow and coherence. You can also use subheadings, quotes, or questions to break up your text and create interest.
###### Use keywords and phrases that match your users' needs and expectations
Finally, one of the most important aspects of scannability is using keywords and phrases that match your users' needs and expectations. Keywords and phrases are the words and expressions that users use to search for and find your content. They help users identify the relevance and value of your content, and decide whether to click, read, or take action. To use keywords and phrases effectively, you need to do some UX research to understand your users' goals, questions, problems, and preferences. You can use tools, such as keyword research, user interviews, surveys, and analytics, to find and use the most appropriate keywords and phrases for your content.
######Here’s what else to consider
This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?