high contrast makes documents more legible – alternative colour contrasts (including black text on a yellow background) can be beneficial, particularly to readers who are dyslexic or have a learning difficulty.lowercase letters are easier to read – avoid using capitals for continuous text.Other important guidelines to consider in producing more accessible content are that: this is 12 point text in Times New Roman.It is also important to remember that point sizes can vary between fonts. The RNIB define large print as 16 point Arial or bigger. However, it is good practice to make ‘large print’ versions of documents available on request. Text size of 12 point or higher will benefit most users. People with sight problems generally find heavier weight types easier to read. These types of sans-serif fonts are also generally used in web design. However, for printed documents, many organisations recommend using a clear, ‘sans-serif’ font without too many flourishes – such as Arial, Helvetica or Verdana. There are no hard and fast rules about the best fonts to use and users have their own preferences. The presentation and layout of information can make a big difference to reading and comprehension. using bullet points to help break complex information down.avoiding acronyms and jargon - if you must use acronyms or uncommon terms, then include an explanation of them when they are first used.using ‘active’ verbs mainly, not ‘passive’ ones – for example, “We will send you an appointment” (active), rather than “An appointment will be arranged for you” (passive).ensuring longer sentences do not have more than three items of information.using short sentences – a good average sentence length is 15 to 20 words.While recognising the need for flexibility, the Plain English Campaign advises: It can be defined as a simple, clear, conversational style that uses everyday words and an active voice. Plain language means communication that the listener or reader can understand the first time they hear or read it. Using ‘plain language’ is a key aspect of organising and presenting information so that it is easy to follow. It is essential to use clear, simple language to communicate effectively. After highlighting the text you want to use as a heading, select your desired style from the formatting toolbar or the Styles Pane. In Word, headings are set using ‘styles’. This enables screen readers to identify headings for the listener, and also allows navigation of the document by its headings. This means using a hierarchy of headings – such as Heading 1, Heading 2, Heading 3 etc. You should use an appropriate heading structure for your document. This document has been produced using all of these key principles.

check the accessibility of your document using Word’s built-in checker.provide a meaningful description of important images.use proper list formatting for numbered or bullet lists.use a common, plain font and a text size of at least 12 point.write in plain language and avoid jargon and abbreviations.It is good practice to write as though for electronic publishing – based on the following main principles: For it to be read and understood by as wide an audience as possible – including, for example, people with visual impairments, dyslexia or learning difficulties – your document also has to work well with screen reading software. To be truly accessible, it is not enough for a document just to look well-presented.

How to check accessibility in word