Accessibility isn’t just a design trend — it’s a mindset.

When we discuss accessible writing, we’re not only referring to individuals with disabilities. We’re talking about making your content easier to understand, navigate, and engage with for everyone, including:

• People with visual or cognitive impairments
• Non-native English speakers
• Mobile readers
• Screen reader users
• Busy professionals with 10 seconds to spare

In 2025, accessible writing is no longer optional — it’s a standard for inclusive communication, whether you’re writing for websites, blogs, education, or marketing.

Why Accessibility in Writing Matters

Accessible writing helps your message reach more people — full stop.

When your content is inclusive and clear:

• More users understand it
• More people can interact with it
• You improve SEO and UX at the same time
• You show respect for diverse audiences
• You meet legal and ethical standards (especially in education and the public sectors)

🧩 Accessibility isn’t about “dumbing down” — it’s about opening up.

Good writing meets your audience where they are, not where you wish they were.

Key Principles of Accessible Writing

Let’s start with the core building blocks. These guidelines apply to all content, including articles, course materials, websites, and emails.

✅ 1. Use Plain Language

Avoid jargon, buzzwords, or unnecessarily complex vocabulary. Aim for clarity, not cleverness.

Instead of: Utilize this feature to expedite workflow efficiency

Try: Use this feature to work faster

Plain language helps non-native speakers, people with cognitive impairments, and mobile readers understand you quickly.

✅ 2. Short Sentences. Simple Structures.

Break long sentences into smaller, digestible ones. Use one idea per sentence. Use active voice.

✏️ “We updated the tool so you can now export reports with one click.”

Not: “An update has been implemented for streamlined report exportation capabilities.”

✅ 3. Structure Content Logically

Use subheadings, bullet points, short paragraphs, and consistent formatting. This helps both screen readers and skimmers.

Break up blocks of text. Use whitespace. Think visually.

✅ 4. Be Inclusive in Language

Avoid gendered phrases, stereotypes, and idioms that exclude. Use people-first language.

Say: “People with hearing loss” — not “the hearing impaired.”

Avoid: “Hey guys” if your audience is mixed.

✅ 5. Provide Context, Not Just Links

Don’t just say “click here.” Tell users what they’re clicking.

✅ Download our accessibility checklist (PDF)

❌ Click here to download

Before vs. After Accessible Writing

Practical Tips by Content Type

Writing a tweet is different from writing a tutorial. Here’s how accessibility applies across formats:

📝 For Blog Posts and Articles:

• Use clear headings and summaries
• Add alt text to all images
• Avoid long, uninterrupted paragraphs
• Define industry terms when first introduced
• Include transcripts if there’s audio or video

📚 For Educational Content:

• Add glossaries and key takeaways
• Provide alternative formats (e.g., audio, large print, HTML)
• Avoid instructions that rely only on color or visuals
• Use consistent labeling and sectioning
• Test readability level — aim for grade 8–10

📣 For Marketing Copy:

• Prioritize clarity over persuasion tricks
• Don’t bury key benefits in metaphors
• Include descriptive CTAs, not just “Learn More”
• Use inclusive visuals and representative language
• Make emails and landing pages screen reader-friendly

Common Accessibility Mistakes to Avoid

Even well-intentioned writers make mistakes that create unnecessary friction for readers.

❌ Don’t:

• Overuse acronyms without definitions
• Use long hyperlinks or URLs as link text
• Depends on color alone to convey meaning
• Forget to label tables, charts, or buttons
• Embed important content in images without text alternatives

✅ Do:

• Explain abbreviations (e.g., LMS = Learning Management System)
• Use meaningful, descriptive hyperlinks
• Provide alt text for every image — even decorative ones (label them as such)
• Use tables only for actual data, not for layout
• Keep reading level appropriate for your audience

Accessibility Is Good Writing

Writing accessibly doesn’t mean watering down your voice or limiting creativity. It means writing with intention and respect for readers with different needs, devices, and perspectives.

Whether you’re writing a syllabus, a blog post, a newsletter, or a product update, accessibility ensures:

• Your message reaches more people
• Your content works across platforms
• Your readers feel included, not excluded

Because the best content isn’t just clever — it’s clear, inclusive, and built for everyone.