How do you make web content readable for users with different cognitive abilities?

1 Use clear and simple language

One of the most important aspects of readability is the language you use to communicate your message. Avoid using jargon, slang, idioms, or complex sentences that might confuse or frustrate your users. Instead, use clear and simple language that is easy to read and understand. Use short words, sentences, and paragraphs, and break up your text into logical sections with headings and subheadings. Use active voice, positive tone, and direct address to engage your users and make them feel welcome.

2 Choose appropriate fonts and colors

Another aspect of readability is the visual presentation of your text. Choose fonts and colors that are legible, consistent, and contrast well with the background. Avoid using fonts that are too small, too fancy, or too similar to each other. Use fonts that support different languages and characters, and avoid using all caps, italics, or underlining for emphasis. Use colors that are not too bright, too dark, or too similar to each other. Use colors that are compatible with different color schemes and color blindness, and avoid using colors for meaning or navigation.

3 Provide alternative formats and options

Some users might have difficulties reading or accessing your web content due to their cognitive abilities, preferences, or devices. To make your web content more accessible, provide alternative formats and options that suit their needs and choices. For example, you can provide audio or video versions of your text, captions or transcripts for your audio or video content, or images or icons for your text content. You can also provide options for users to adjust the font size, color, or layout of your web content, or to skip or pause animations or sounds.

4 Use clear and consistent navigation

Navigating your web content can be challenging for some users, especially if they have problems with memory, attention, or orientation. To make your web content more readable, use clear and consistent navigation that helps your users find their way around your web pages. Use descriptive and meaningful labels for your links, buttons, menus, and forms. Use breadcrumbs, sitemaps, or search functions to show your users where they are and where they can go. Use feedback and confirmation messages to show your users what they have done and what they can do next.

5 Test and evaluate your web content

The best way to make sure your web content is readable for users with different cognitive abilities is to test and evaluate it with real users. You can use various tools and methods to test and evaluate your web content, such as readability tests, accessibility audits, user surveys, or user testing. You can also use different devices and browsers to test and evaluate your web content, such as desktops, laptops, tablets, or smartphones. You can also use different settings and scenarios to test and evaluate your web content, such as different lighting, noise, or distractions.

6 Follow web standards and guidelines

Finally, to make your web content readable for users with different cognitive abilities, follow the web standards and guidelines that are designed to ensure the quality and accessibility of web content. Web standards and guidelines are developed by organizations and experts that have the knowledge and experience in web development and accessibility. Some of the web standards and guidelines you can follow are the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), the HTML5 specification, or the Responsive Web Design principles.

7 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?