Tip #7: The How – Clear Writing

Hello Team,

Welcome back to our Accessibility Tips & Tricks series!

This week, we continue our hands-on work with the NCADEMI Accessibility Basics by focusing on Clear Writing, a foundational skill that directly supports digital accessibility across all types of content.

What Is Clear Writing?

Clear writing means presenting information in a way that is easy to read, understand, and act on. It reduces cognitive load and helps users quickly find what they need without unnecessary confusion.

Clear writing supports users who:

• use screen readers or text-to-speech tools

• have learning disabilities or attention challenges

• are English language learners

• are reading quickly on a phone or small screen

• simply appreciate clarity and simplicity

Clear writing helps everyone, not just those who need accommodations.

Learn more from NCADEMI’s overview on Clear Writing.

What Makes Writing Clear and Accessible?

Clear writing often includes:

• Plain language instead of jargon or acronyms

• Shorter sentences and paragraphs

• Active voice when possible

• Concrete, specific wording

• Logical organization with headings and spacing

Example:

Less clear: Staff are encouraged to utilize the aforementioned resources at their discretion for the purpose of increasing instructional efficacy.

Clearer: Staff are encouraged to use these resources to improve instruction.

Where Does Clear Writing Matter Most?

Clear writing improves digital accessibility in:

• emails and announcements

• instructions and directions

• documents and handouts

• website content

• learning materials and assessments

If content is confusing to read visually, it is often even harder to understand with assistive technology.

Your task for this week

1. Choose one document, email, or slide deck you recently created.

2. Review it with clarity in mind.

   • Can sentences be shortened?

   • Are instructions easy to follow?

   • Is unnecessary language removed?

3. Revise one section to make it clearer and more direct.

4. If you want feedback or ideas, bring it to office hours.

Next week, we’ll explore Color Use and how intentional choices support readability and digital accessibility for all users.

Thank you for continuing to strengthen digital accessibility through thoughtful, practical changes.
ESU 10 Accessibility Implementation and Planning Team