Key takeaways:<\/h3>\n\n- Accessible web design removes barriers so people of all abilities can use and enjoy your website.<\/li>\n
- Accessibility improves usability for everyone, while also supporting SEO and legal compliance.<\/li>\n
- Small design choices\u2014like headings, fonts, contrast, and alt text\u2014have a big accessibility impact.<\/li>\n
- Following WCAG guidelines provides a practical framework for inclusive, future-proof design.<\/li>\n
- Testing and maintaining accessibility over time is essential for creating truly inclusive websites.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n
<\/span>What is Web Accessibility? <\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\nWeb accessibility and accessible web design<\/a> means designing and developing websites, tools, and technologies that can be used by people of all abilities, including those with temporary, situational, or permanent disabilities. <\/strong>That includes users who are blind or have low vision, those who are deaf or hard of hearing, people with motor difficulties, cognitive or learning disabilities, and many others.<\/p>\n\n\n\nChances are that many people you know (if not you yourself) are in this situation. According to the World Health Organization, over 1.3 billion people\u2014or roughly 16% of the global population<\/a>\u2014live with some form of disability<\/strong>. That\u2019s a massive audience we don\u2019t and shouldn\u2019t want to leave out\u2014partly because it\u2019s just the right thing to do, and also because it\u2019s surely an audience that you want to reach.<\/p>\n\n\n\nAccessibility is about removing barriers so all users can perceive, understand, navigate, and interact with your website<\/strong>. These are the four pillars of the POUR framework, which underpins the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG):<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n- Perceivable<\/strong>: Information and interface components must be presented in ways users can perceive (such as using alt text for images, sufficient color contrast).<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Operable<\/strong>: Navigation and interface elements must be usable via multiple methods (keyboard, screen reader, etc.).<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Understandable<\/strong>: Content and interfaces must be clear and predictable (readable text, consistent design).<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Robust<\/strong>: Content must work reliably across current and future devices, browsers, and assistive technologies.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
If you\u2019re not sure what to make of all these concepts, don\u2019t worry\u2014we\u2019re going to break it down into understandable and actionable terms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>Why Does Web Accessibility Matter?<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\nAccording to the World Health Organization<\/a>, an estimated 1.3 billion people \u2014 16% of the global population \u2014 live with a significant disability. Yet according to the WebAIM Million report<\/a>, the top one million homepages averaged 56 detectable accessibility errors per page in 2026<\/strong>, meaning most websites are still falling short, often without realizing it. That gap is exactly what accessible web design is designed to close.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThere are other reasons to get on board as well:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Legal compliance:<\/strong> Many countries enforce digital accessibility laws, and failing to meet them can result in costly lawsuits or penalties.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Inclusive values: <\/strong>More broadly, building with web accessibility in mind shows respect for all users and reflects a commitment to inclusivity and equal access.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- SEO benefits: <\/strong>Accessible sites tend to perform better in search engines thanks to clearer structure, alt text, semantic HTML, and better page speed<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>What Are Accessible Web Design Best Practices?<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\nNow that we\u2019re all clear on its importance, let\u2019s look at accessible web design best practices you can start putting into action today.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
1. Add Clear, Helpful Headings<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
While seemingly trivial, headings play a surprisingly important role making your content more accessible, readable, and searchable<\/strong>. And when we say \u201cheadings,\u201d we don\u2019t just mean a title in big bold lettering for each page or section; we meanactually using proper HTML tags<\/strong> so that screen readers and search engines alike understand the website structure<\/a><\/strong> of your pages. <\/p>\n\n\n\nA screen reader is software that reads aloud the content on a screen, allowing people who are blind or have low vision to navigate and interact with accessible websites using speech or braille.<\/p><\/div>\n\n\n\n
For screen reader users, headings act as signposts. They allow users to navigate through content quickly<\/strong>, skipping to the section they\u2019re interested in without having to read everything in order. This is especially helpful on longer web pages, where a well-structured outline can save time and reduce frustration.<\/p>\n\n\n\nAnd of course, accessible headings aren\u2019t just good for users\u2014they\u2019re also a key part of SEO basics<\/a><\/strong>. Search engines rely on heading structure to understand the hierarchy and relevance of your content<\/strong>. Using proper HTML heading tags (<h1> through <h6>) signals to search engines what your page is about and how it’s organized, making it easier to index and rank.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nFrom a visual design perspective, clear headings also improve readability and scannability<\/strong>. Most people don\u2019t read web pages word-for-word; they scan. Well-designed headings break up long blocks of text, highlight key points, and guide the reader\u2019s eye through the page. When styled consistently, they help create a visual rhythm that enhances the user experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\nNow, if you\u2019re not familiar with using header tags, no problem\u2014they can be easy to implement. In the SiteGround Website Builder<\/a>, for example, you can just highlight your text, and modify the type of text as you go.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Adding](\"https:\/\/academy.siteground.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/08\/Adding-a-heading-tag-to-website-via-the-SiteGround-Website-Builder.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nTo make the most of your headings:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Use only one <h1><\/strong> per web page (usually the page title)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Follow a logical nesting order<\/strong> (<h2> for main sections, <h3> for subsections, etc.)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Keep them short, descriptive, and relevant<\/strong> to the content that follows<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Avoid using headings purely for visual effect<\/strong>\u2014use CSS to style regular text if it\u2019s not meant to function as a heading<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
2. Choose Accessible, Easy-to-Read Fonts<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Typography is one of the most overlooked aspects of web accessibility, but it has a huge impact on how easily users can read and engage with your content.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For accessibility, the goal is to choose fonts that are legible, clear, and consistent across devices<\/strong> and screen sizes (this is just as important, by the way, when it comes to choosing the best fonts for email<\/a>). This helps people with low vision, dyslexia, or cognitive disabilities process text more easily. It also improves readability for everyone, especially on mobile screens.<\/p>\n\n\n\nWhen it comes to choosing font, here are best practices to consider and follow:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Use Simple, Sans-Serif Fonts<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Sans-serif fonts like Roboto or Open Sans are generally easier to read <\/strong>on screens of all sizes than serif fonts, which have small decorative strokes at the ends of their letters. Avoid overly decorative, script<\/strong>, or novelty fonts especially in body copy\u2014they might look fun, but they can be hard to decipher for many users.<\/p>\n\n\n\nKeep Font Size Legible<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Be mindful of body text size making sure it\u2019s reading without forcing users to zoom in<\/strong>. Also make sure your text scales well when a user adjusts<\/strong> their browser\u2019s zoom settings or increases text size in their operating system preferences.<\/p>\n\n\n\nPay Attention to Spacing<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Use ample line height, letter spacing, and paragraph spacing<\/strong> to give your text breathing room. Dense, cramped text can be overwhelming and hard to follow, particularly for users with reading difficulties or cognitive disabilities.<\/p>\n\n\n\nLimit the Number of Fonts<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Stick to one or two fonts across your site<\/strong> to maintain visual consistency and reduce cognitive load. Many competing typefaces can make your design feel chaotic and harder to process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Choosing](\"https:\/\/academy.siteground.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/08\/Choosing-font-pairings-in-the-SiteGround-Website-Builder.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nAvoid Using Text in Images<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Text embedded in images can\u2019t be read by assistive technologies<\/strong>, like screen readers, and doesn\u2019t scale well for different screen sizes. If you must use it, make sure the same information is available as live text elsewhere on the page.<\/p>\n\n\n\nWhen it comes to implementing these font best practices, SiteGround makes it extra simple<\/strong>. Our website builder offers carefully curated font pairings that are optimized for readability, professionalism, and performance. And everything automatically adjusts for all screen sizes so that you can be sure your text is always readable. <\/p>\n\n\n\n3. Write Descriptive Alt Text for Images<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Alt text, or alternative text, is a short description of an image added via the alt attribute in HTML<\/strong>. It\u2019s essential for web accessibility, allowing users who rely on screen readers to understand the content and context of images<\/strong>. It also improves both SEO and AI<\/a> by making it easier for machines to interpret images on your site.<\/p>\n\n\n\nWhat Makes for Good Alt Text?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Effective alt text is:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Concise<\/strong> \u2013 typically a brief sentence that captures the essential message or purpose of the image.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Contextual<\/strong> \u2013 tailored to how the image relates to surrounding content.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Descriptive<\/strong> \u2013 clearly communicates what the image shows or represents.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Examples:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- \u201cRock climber scaling a granite cliff at sunrise\u201d \u2014 descriptive and relevant<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- \u201cSiteGround logo\u201d \u2014 short but provides necessary context<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- \u201cRed backpack on a forest trail\u201d \u2014 gives meaning to a product or lifestyle photo<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
![\"Adding](\"https:\/\/academy.siteground.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/08\/Adding-alt-text-to-an-image-in-the-SiteGround-Website-Builder.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nOn the other hand, avoid vague or unhelpful descriptions like:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- \u201cImage\u201d or \u201cPicture\u201d \u2014 these provide no useful information<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- \u201cClick here\u201d \u2014 if used as a linked image, this lacks clarity<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- \u201cLogo\u201d \u2014 unless you specify whose logo it is<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
When to use alt text\u2014and when to leave it out<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n- Use alt text for images that convey information, illustrate content, or provide important context<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Use alt=”” (an empty alt attribute) for decorative images that don\u2019t add meaning\u2014such as borders, icons used only for style, or background flourishes. This prevents screen readers from announcing unnecessary content.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
What about complex images?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nFor graphs, charts, and infographics, alt text alone may not be enough<\/strong>. Provide a longer description elsewhere<\/strong> on the page (such as a text summary below the image) to convey the data or insights in an accessible way.<\/p>\n\n\n\nFeeling a little confused about all this talk of using the alt attribute in HTML? It doesn\u2019t have to be complicated. SiteGround makes adding alt text to your images super easy. Just click on an image in your photo library, give it a description in the alt text field, and you\u2019re good to go.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
4. Use Clear Links and Strong Calls to Action<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Clear, descriptive links and calls to action (CTAs) are one of those small but impactful details that improve both web accessibility and usability. They help all users\u2014including those people with disabilities\u2014understand exactly what will happen<\/strong> when they interact with a link or button.<\/p>\n\n\n\nWhy Clarity Matters<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Screen reader users often navigate a page by scanning through a list of links. Vague link text like \u201cClick here,\u201d \u201cRead more,\u201d or \u201cLearn more\u201d doesn\u2019t provide meaningful context, making it difficult to understand the purpose of the link without hearing surrounding content.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Descriptive links improve website navigation<\/a> by clearly communicating the destination or action.<\/strong> This benefits everyone, including users with cognitive disabilities or anyone scanning the page quickly.<\/p>\n\n\n\nWith that in mind, here are a handful of best practices for links and CTAs: <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Be specific: <\/strong>Use link text that clearly describes what the user will get or where they will go, such as \u201cDownload the 2025 Accessibility Guide\u201d or \u201cView pricing plans.\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Keep it concise: <\/strong>While descriptive, links should be short enough to be easily understood at a glance.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Use consistent styling:<\/strong> Links and buttons should stand out visually, typically using color and underlining or distinct button shapes, so users recognize them easily.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Avoid using URLs as link text: <\/strong>Long URLs are hard to read and understand; instead, use meaningful text.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Use buttons for actions:<\/strong> When the interaction triggers an action (like submitting a form or starting a download), use buttons instead of links to convey this difference.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
![\"Example](\"https:\/\/academy.siteground.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/08\/Example-of-a-call-to-action-button-with-clear-description-text.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n\n- Accessible focus states and keyboard navigation: <\/strong>Make sure that links and buttons have visible focus indicators (such as outlines or underlines) when selected via keyboard navigation. This helps users who rely on keyboard input track where they are on the page.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
These same principles apply beyond accessibility, as clear, descriptive CTAs are a cornerstone of good ecommerce website design<\/a> too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>What is Web Accessibility? <\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\nWeb accessibility and accessible web design<\/a> means designing and developing websites, tools, and technologies that can be used by people of all abilities, including those with temporary, situational, or permanent disabilities. <\/strong>That includes users who are blind or have low vision, those who are deaf or hard of hearing, people with motor difficulties, cognitive or learning disabilities, and many others.<\/p>\n\n\n\nChances are that many people you know (if not you yourself) are in this situation. According to the World Health Organization, over 1.3 billion people\u2014or roughly 16% of the global population<\/a>\u2014live with some form of disability<\/strong>. That\u2019s a massive audience we don\u2019t and shouldn\u2019t want to leave out\u2014partly because it\u2019s just the right thing to do, and also because it\u2019s surely an audience that you want to reach.<\/p>\n\n\n\nAccessibility is about removing barriers so all users can perceive, understand, navigate, and interact with your website<\/strong>. These are the four pillars of the POUR framework, which underpins the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG):<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n- Perceivable<\/strong>: Information and interface components must be presented in ways users can perceive (such as using alt text for images, sufficient color contrast).<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Operable<\/strong>: Navigation and interface elements must be usable via multiple methods (keyboard, screen reader, etc.).<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Understandable<\/strong>: Content and interfaces must be clear and predictable (readable text, consistent design).<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Robust<\/strong>: Content must work reliably across current and future devices, browsers, and assistive technologies.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
If you\u2019re not sure what to make of all these concepts, don\u2019t worry\u2014we\u2019re going to break it down into understandable and actionable terms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>Why Does Web Accessibility Matter?<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\nAccording to the World Health Organization<\/a>, an estimated 1.3 billion people \u2014 16% of the global population \u2014 live with a significant disability. Yet according to the WebAIM Million report<\/a>, the top one million homepages averaged 56 detectable accessibility errors per page in 2026<\/strong>, meaning most websites are still falling short, often without realizing it. That gap is exactly what accessible web design is designed to close.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThere are other reasons to get on board as well:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Legal compliance:<\/strong> Many countries enforce digital accessibility laws, and failing to meet them can result in costly lawsuits or penalties.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Inclusive values: <\/strong>More broadly, building with web accessibility in mind shows respect for all users and reflects a commitment to inclusivity and equal access.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- SEO benefits: <\/strong>Accessible sites tend to perform better in search engines thanks to clearer structure, alt text, semantic HTML, and better page speed<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>What Are Accessible Web Design Best Practices?<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\nNow that we\u2019re all clear on its importance, let\u2019s look at accessible web design best practices you can start putting into action today.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
1. Add Clear, Helpful Headings<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
While seemingly trivial, headings play a surprisingly important role making your content more accessible, readable, and searchable<\/strong>. And when we say \u201cheadings,\u201d we don\u2019t just mean a title in big bold lettering for each page or section; we meanactually using proper HTML tags<\/strong> so that screen readers and search engines alike understand the website structure<\/a><\/strong> of your pages. <\/p>\n\n\n\nA screen reader is software that reads aloud the content on a screen, allowing people who are blind or have low vision to navigate and interact with accessible websites using speech or braille.<\/p><\/div>\n\n\n\n
For screen reader users, headings act as signposts. They allow users to navigate through content quickly<\/strong>, skipping to the section they\u2019re interested in without having to read everything in order. This is especially helpful on longer web pages, where a well-structured outline can save time and reduce frustration.<\/p>\n\n\n\nAnd of course, accessible headings aren\u2019t just good for users\u2014they\u2019re also a key part of SEO basics<\/a><\/strong>. Search engines rely on heading structure to understand the hierarchy and relevance of your content<\/strong>. Using proper HTML heading tags (<h1> through <h6>) signals to search engines what your page is about and how it’s organized, making it easier to index and rank.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nFrom a visual design perspective, clear headings also improve readability and scannability<\/strong>. Most people don\u2019t read web pages word-for-word; they scan. Well-designed headings break up long blocks of text, highlight key points, and guide the reader\u2019s eye through the page. When styled consistently, they help create a visual rhythm that enhances the user experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\nNow, if you\u2019re not familiar with using header tags, no problem\u2014they can be easy to implement. In the SiteGround Website Builder<\/a>, for example, you can just highlight your text, and modify the type of text as you go.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nTo make the most of your headings:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Use only one <h1><\/strong> per web page (usually the page title)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Follow a logical nesting order<\/strong> (<h2> for main sections, <h3> for subsections, etc.)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Keep them short, descriptive, and relevant<\/strong> to the content that follows<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Avoid using headings purely for visual effect<\/strong>\u2014use CSS to style regular text if it\u2019s not meant to function as a heading<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
2. Choose Accessible, Easy-to-Read Fonts<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Typography is one of the most overlooked aspects of web accessibility, but it has a huge impact on how easily users can read and engage with your content.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For accessibility, the goal is to choose fonts that are legible, clear, and consistent across devices<\/strong> and screen sizes (this is just as important, by the way, when it comes to choosing the best fonts for email<\/a>). This helps people with low vision, dyslexia, or cognitive disabilities process text more easily. It also improves readability for everyone, especially on mobile screens.<\/p>\n\n\n\nWhen it comes to choosing font, here are best practices to consider and follow:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Use Simple, Sans-Serif Fonts<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Sans-serif fonts like Roboto or Open Sans are generally easier to read <\/strong>on screens of all sizes than serif fonts, which have small decorative strokes at the ends of their letters. Avoid overly decorative, script<\/strong>, or novelty fonts especially in body copy\u2014they might look fun, but they can be hard to decipher for many users.<\/p>\n\n\n\nKeep Font Size Legible<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Be mindful of body text size making sure it\u2019s reading without forcing users to zoom in<\/strong>. Also make sure your text scales well when a user adjusts<\/strong> their browser\u2019s zoom settings or increases text size in their operating system preferences.<\/p>\n\n\n\nPay Attention to Spacing<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Use ample line height, letter spacing, and paragraph spacing<\/strong> to give your text breathing room. Dense, cramped text can be overwhelming and hard to follow, particularly for users with reading difficulties or cognitive disabilities.<\/p>\n\n\n\nLimit the Number of Fonts<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Stick to one or two fonts across your site<\/strong> to maintain visual consistency and reduce cognitive load. Many competing typefaces can make your design feel chaotic and harder to process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nAvoid Using Text in Images<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Text embedded in images can\u2019t be read by assistive technologies<\/strong>, like screen readers, and doesn\u2019t scale well for different screen sizes. If you must use it, make sure the same information is available as live text elsewhere on the page.<\/p>\n\n\n\nWhen it comes to implementing these font best practices, SiteGround makes it extra simple<\/strong>. Our website builder offers carefully curated font pairings that are optimized for readability, professionalism, and performance. And everything automatically adjusts for all screen sizes so that you can be sure your text is always readable. <\/p>\n\n\n\n3. Write Descriptive Alt Text for Images<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Alt text, or alternative text, is a short description of an image added via the alt attribute in HTML<\/strong>. It\u2019s essential for web accessibility, allowing users who rely on screen readers to understand the content and context of images<\/strong>. It also improves both SEO and AI<\/a> by making it easier for machines to interpret images on your site.<\/p>\n\n\n\nWhat Makes for Good Alt Text?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Effective alt text is:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Concise<\/strong> \u2013 typically a brief sentence that captures the essential message or purpose of the image.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Contextual<\/strong> \u2013 tailored to how the image relates to surrounding content.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Descriptive<\/strong> \u2013 clearly communicates what the image shows or represents.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Examples:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- \u201cRock climber scaling a granite cliff at sunrise\u201d \u2014 descriptive and relevant<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- \u201cSiteGround logo\u201d \u2014 short but provides necessary context<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- \u201cRed backpack on a forest trail\u201d \u2014 gives meaning to a product or lifestyle photo<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nOn the other hand, avoid vague or unhelpful descriptions like:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- \u201cImage\u201d or \u201cPicture\u201d \u2014 these provide no useful information<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- \u201cClick here\u201d \u2014 if used as a linked image, this lacks clarity<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- \u201cLogo\u201d \u2014 unless you specify whose logo it is<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
When to use alt text\u2014and when to leave it out<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n- Use alt text for images that convey information, illustrate content, or provide important context<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Use alt=”” (an empty alt attribute) for decorative images that don\u2019t add meaning\u2014such as borders, icons used only for style, or background flourishes. This prevents screen readers from announcing unnecessary content.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
What about complex images?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nFor graphs, charts, and infographics, alt text alone may not be enough<\/strong>. Provide a longer description elsewhere<\/strong> on the page (such as a text summary below the image) to convey the data or insights in an accessible way.<\/p>\n\n\n\nFeeling a little confused about all this talk of using the alt attribute in HTML? It doesn\u2019t have to be complicated. SiteGround makes adding alt text to your images super easy. Just click on an image in your photo library, give it a description in the alt text field, and you\u2019re good to go.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
4. Use Clear Links and Strong Calls to Action<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Clear, descriptive links and calls to action (CTAs) are one of those small but impactful details that improve both web accessibility and usability. They help all users\u2014including those people with disabilities\u2014understand exactly what will happen<\/strong> when they interact with a link or button.<\/p>\n\n\n\nWhy Clarity Matters<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Screen reader users often navigate a page by scanning through a list of links. Vague link text like \u201cClick here,\u201d \u201cRead more,\u201d or \u201cLearn more\u201d doesn\u2019t provide meaningful context, making it difficult to understand the purpose of the link without hearing surrounding content.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Descriptive links improve website navigation<\/a> by clearly communicating the destination or action.<\/strong> This benefits everyone, including users with cognitive disabilities or anyone scanning the page quickly.<\/p>\n\n\n\nWith that in mind, here are a handful of best practices for links and CTAs: <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Be specific: <\/strong>Use link text that clearly describes what the user will get or where they will go, such as \u201cDownload the 2025 Accessibility Guide\u201d or \u201cView pricing plans.\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Keep it concise: <\/strong>While descriptive, links should be short enough to be easily understood at a glance.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Use consistent styling:<\/strong> Links and buttons should stand out visually, typically using color and underlining or distinct button shapes, so users recognize them easily.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Avoid using URLs as link text: <\/strong>Long URLs are hard to read and understand; instead, use meaningful text.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Use buttons for actions:<\/strong> When the interaction triggers an action (like submitting a form or starting a download), use buttons instead of links to convey this difference.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n\n- Accessible focus states and keyboard navigation: <\/strong>Make sure that links and buttons have visible focus indicators (such as outlines or underlines) when selected via keyboard navigation. This helps users who rely on keyboard input track where they are on the page.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
These same principles apply beyond accessibility, as clear, descriptive CTAs are a cornerstone of good ecommerce website design<\/a> too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Chances are that many people you know (if not you yourself) are in this situation. According to the World Health Organization, over 1.3 billion people\u2014or roughly 16% of the global population<\/a>\u2014live with some form of disability<\/strong>. That\u2019s a massive audience we don\u2019t and shouldn\u2019t want to leave out\u2014partly because it\u2019s just the right thing to do, and also because it\u2019s surely an audience that you want to reach.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Accessibility is about removing barriers so all users can perceive, understand, navigate, and interact with your website<\/strong>. These are the four pillars of the POUR framework, which underpins the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG):<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you\u2019re not sure what to make of all these concepts, don\u2019t worry\u2014we\u2019re going to break it down into understandable and actionable terms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n According to the World Health Organization<\/a>, an estimated 1.3 billion people \u2014 16% of the global population \u2014 live with a significant disability. Yet according to the WebAIM Million report<\/a>, the top one million homepages averaged 56 detectable accessibility errors per page in 2026<\/strong>, meaning most websites are still falling short, often without realizing it. That gap is exactly what accessible web design is designed to close.<\/p>\n\n\n\n There are other reasons to get on board as well:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Now that we\u2019re all clear on its importance, let\u2019s look at accessible web design best practices you can start putting into action today.<\/p>\n\n\n\n While seemingly trivial, headings play a surprisingly important role making your content more accessible, readable, and searchable<\/strong>. And when we say \u201cheadings,\u201d we don\u2019t just mean a title in big bold lettering for each page or section; we meanactually using proper HTML tags<\/strong> so that screen readers and search engines alike understand the website structure<\/a><\/strong> of your pages. <\/p>\n\n\n\n A screen reader is software that reads aloud the content on a screen, allowing people who are blind or have low vision to navigate and interact with accessible websites using speech or braille.<\/p><\/div>\n\n\n\n For screen reader users, headings act as signposts. They allow users to navigate through content quickly<\/strong>, skipping to the section they\u2019re interested in without having to read everything in order. This is especially helpful on longer web pages, where a well-structured outline can save time and reduce frustration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n And of course, accessible headings aren\u2019t just good for users\u2014they\u2019re also a key part of SEO basics<\/a><\/strong>. Search engines rely on heading structure to understand the hierarchy and relevance of your content<\/strong>. Using proper HTML heading tags (<h1> through <h6>) signals to search engines what your page is about and how it’s organized, making it easier to index and rank.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n From a visual design perspective, clear headings also improve readability and scannability<\/strong>. Most people don\u2019t read web pages word-for-word; they scan. Well-designed headings break up long blocks of text, highlight key points, and guide the reader\u2019s eye through the page. When styled consistently, they help create a visual rhythm that enhances the user experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Now, if you\u2019re not familiar with using header tags, no problem\u2014they can be easy to implement. In the SiteGround Website Builder<\/a>, for example, you can just highlight your text, and modify the type of text as you go.<\/p>\n\n\n\n To make the most of your headings:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Typography is one of the most overlooked aspects of web accessibility, but it has a huge impact on how easily users can read and engage with your content.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For accessibility, the goal is to choose fonts that are legible, clear, and consistent across devices<\/strong> and screen sizes (this is just as important, by the way, when it comes to choosing the best fonts for email<\/a>). This helps people with low vision, dyslexia, or cognitive disabilities process text more easily. It also improves readability for everyone, especially on mobile screens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n When it comes to choosing font, here are best practices to consider and follow:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Sans-serif fonts like Roboto or Open Sans are generally easier to read <\/strong>on screens of all sizes than serif fonts, which have small decorative strokes at the ends of their letters. Avoid overly decorative, script<\/strong>, or novelty fonts especially in body copy\u2014they might look fun, but they can be hard to decipher for many users.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Be mindful of body text size making sure it\u2019s reading without forcing users to zoom in<\/strong>. Also make sure your text scales well when a user adjusts<\/strong> their browser\u2019s zoom settings or increases text size in their operating system preferences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Use ample line height, letter spacing, and paragraph spacing<\/strong> to give your text breathing room. Dense, cramped text can be overwhelming and hard to follow, particularly for users with reading difficulties or cognitive disabilities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Stick to one or two fonts across your site<\/strong> to maintain visual consistency and reduce cognitive load. Many competing typefaces can make your design feel chaotic and harder to process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Text embedded in images can\u2019t be read by assistive technologies<\/strong>, like screen readers, and doesn\u2019t scale well for different screen sizes. If you must use it, make sure the same information is available as live text elsewhere on the page.<\/p>\n\n\n\n When it comes to implementing these font best practices, SiteGround makes it extra simple<\/strong>. Our website builder offers carefully curated font pairings that are optimized for readability, professionalism, and performance. And everything automatically adjusts for all screen sizes so that you can be sure your text is always readable. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Alt text, or alternative text, is a short description of an image added via the alt attribute in HTML<\/strong>. It\u2019s essential for web accessibility, allowing users who rely on screen readers to understand the content and context of images<\/strong>. It also improves both SEO and AI<\/a> by making it easier for machines to interpret images on your site.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Effective alt text is:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Examples:<\/p>\n\n\n\n On the other hand, avoid vague or unhelpful descriptions like:<\/p>\n\n\n\n When to use alt text\u2014and when to leave it out<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n What about complex images?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n For graphs, charts, and infographics, alt text alone may not be enough<\/strong>. Provide a longer description elsewhere<\/strong> on the page (such as a text summary below the image) to convey the data or insights in an accessible way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Feeling a little confused about all this talk of using the alt attribute in HTML? It doesn\u2019t have to be complicated. SiteGround makes adding alt text to your images super easy. Just click on an image in your photo library, give it a description in the alt text field, and you\u2019re good to go.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Clear, descriptive links and calls to action (CTAs) are one of those small but impactful details that improve both web accessibility and usability. They help all users\u2014including those people with disabilities\u2014understand exactly what will happen<\/strong> when they interact with a link or button.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Screen reader users often navigate a page by scanning through a list of links. Vague link text like \u201cClick here,\u201d \u201cRead more,\u201d or \u201cLearn more\u201d doesn\u2019t provide meaningful context, making it difficult to understand the purpose of the link without hearing surrounding content.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Descriptive links improve website navigation<\/a> by clearly communicating the destination or action.<\/strong> This benefits everyone, including users with cognitive disabilities or anyone scanning the page quickly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n With that in mind, here are a handful of best practices for links and CTAs: <\/p>\n\n\n\n These same principles apply beyond accessibility, as clear, descriptive CTAs are a cornerstone of good ecommerce website design<\/a> too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n
<\/span>Why Does Web Accessibility Matter?<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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<\/span>What Are Accessible Web Design Best Practices?<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
1. Add Clear, Helpful Headings<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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2. Choose Accessible, Easy-to-Read Fonts<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Use Simple, Sans-Serif Fonts<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Keep Font Size Legible<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Pay Attention to Spacing<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Limit the Number of Fonts<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nAvoid Using Text in Images<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
3. Write Descriptive Alt Text for Images<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
What Makes for Good Alt Text?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
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4. Use Clear Links and Strong Calls to Action<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Why Clarity Matters<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
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