Writing UX Copy for Accessibility

Accessible UX copy is essential—not just for meeting legal standards, but for creating inclusive digital experiences benefitting everyone. Writing with accessibility in mind ensures that people with disabilities can navigate, understand, and interact with your product as easily as any other user. Here’s how to make your UX copy truly accessible:


1. Use Clear and Concise Language

Simple, direct language is easier for all users—including those with cognitive disabilities and non-native speakers. Avoid jargon, idioms, or figures of speech that could be misunderstood. Use familiar words and short sentences to empower understanding.

Example:

Instead of “Input your credentials to proceed,” write “Sign in with your email and password.”


2. Write Descriptive Text for Links and Buttons

Link and button text should communicate purpose without relying on surrounding context. Users of screen readers, for example, may tab through interactive elements and only hear the label. Descriptive copy ensures everyone knows exactly what will happen.

Good: “Download your invoice (PDF)”

Bad: “Click here”


3. Prioritize Context and Orientation

Provide context for changes in state, navigation, or key actions. This benefits users with visual impairments, cognitive disabilities, or anyone relying on screen readers to understand what’s happening.

Example:

“Profile updated successfully” is more helpful than a vague “Success!”


4. Follow Logical Hierarchy and Consistency

Use headings, lists, and paragraphs appropriately to create a natural reading flow. This helps screen readers and users with cognitive challenges to parse and retain information more easily.

Tip:

Maintain consistent terminology (e.g., always using “Checkout” rather than mixing in “Buy” or “Purchase now”).


5. Support Error Prevention and Recovery

Error messages should be descriptive and supportive, not blame users or be overly technical. Offer guidance on fixing the problem, not just an alert that something went wrong.

Example:

“Password must include at least 8 characters, one number, and one symbol”

rather than

“Invalid password”


6. Use Alt Text and Accessible Labels

All images and icons that convey meaning should have clear, concise alternative text. Form fields and controls need accessible labels so assistive technologies can communicate their function.

Example:

Label a button as “Add to cart” instead of a generic “Submit” if that’s its function.


7. Be Mindful of Visual Language

Don’t rely exclusively on color, icons, or placement to convey meaning. Colorblind users or those with low vision may miss visual cues.

Example:

Instead of highlighting an error field in red only, always provide a text label such as “This field is required.”


8. Write with Empathy and Respect

Choose inclusive, people-first language. Avoid words that could be stigmatizing or exclusionary. Remember that accessible copy is also about tone—be encouraging, not patronizing.


Conclusion

Accessible UX copy isn’t just a checklist—it’s a mindset of inclusion and clarity. By using simple language, descriptive labels, logical structure, supportive messages, and empathetic language, you’ll help ensure that everyone, regardless of ability, can interact with your product smoothly and confidently. By making accessibility a core part of your UX writing process, you open your products to the widest possible audience and demonstrate a genuine commitment to user care.

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