Los Rios Community College District is committed to creating communications that are accessible to the widest possible audience. Accessible content helps ensure that information can be understood and used by people with different abilities, technologies, and learning styles.
Accessibility includes people who use screen readers, keyboard navigation, or other assistive technologies, as well as individuals with visual, hearing, cognitive, or mobility differences.
When creating content, focus on clarity, structure, and readability so that information is accessible to everyone.
Accessibility Basics
As you create content, consider the following questions:
- Would this language make sense to someone who does not work at the college or district?
- Can someone quickly scan the content and understand the main message?
- If someone cannot see images or colors, is the message still clear?
- Does the content work well on both mobile devices and larger screens?
Write Clearly and Use Plain Language
Clear writing improves accessibility for all readers.
- Use short sentences and familiar words
- Avoid jargon, buzzwords, and unnecessary acronyms
- Explain unfamiliar terms the first time they appear
- Focus on the most important information first
Use Headings and Subheadings
Organized content is easier for everyone to read and navigate.
Use headings and subheadings to structure information and break up long blocks of text. Headings help readers quickly scan a document and also help assistive technologies navigate the content.
Headings should follow a logical order and should not skip levels.
Avoid Directional Language
Avoid instructions that rely on the reader seeing the layout or design of a page. Layouts may change across devices, and some users may not see the visual layout.
| Write like this: | Not like this: |
|---|---|
| Select from the following options. | Select from the options in the right sidebar. |
Use Descriptive Links
Links should clearly describe their destination or action. This helps users understand links when navigating with screen readers or when scanning a page. Avoid phrases such as “click here” or “learn more.”
| Write like this: | Not like this: |
|---|---|
| View the Fall 2026 Class Schedule. | Click here to view additional classes. |
Avoid Using All Caps for Emphasis
Avoid writing words or sentences in all capital letters to create emphasis. All caps can be difficult to read and may be interpreted incorrectly by assistive technologies.
Instead, use headings, formatting, or clear wording to emphasize important information.
| Write like this: | Not like this: |
|---|---|
| Complete these steps to receive priority registration. | COMPLETE THESE STEPS TO RECEIVE PRIORITY REGISTRATION. |
Write Clear Instructions
When giving instructions, make sure the steps are clear and easy to follow. Use numbered lists for processes and keep instructions concise.
Avoid Using Color Alone to Convey Meaning
Do not rely on color alone to communicate meaning or instructions. Some users may not be able to distinguish colors due to visual impairments or color vision differences.
If color is used to emphasize information, provide additional context in text.
| Write like this: | Not like this: |
|---|---|
| Required fields are marked with an asterisk (*). | Required fields are shown in red. |
Make Images and Media Accessible
Images, video, and audio should include alternative ways for users to access the information they contain.
- Provide alternative text (alt text) for images
- Include captions or transcripts for video and audio content
- Ensure that important information shown visually is also available in text
Ensure Sufficient Color Contrast
Color should not be the only way to communicate information. Text and background colors should have enough contrast to remain readable for users with low vision or color vision differences.
Accessible Documents and Downloads
Whenever possible, present important information directly on the webpage instead of requiring users to download a PDF or other document.
If documents such as PDFs must be provided, they should be formatted so that they are accessible to assistive technologies.
Making PDFs Accessible
The best way to create an accessible PDF is to start with an accessible document (such as a Microsoft Word file) and then convert it to PDF. Use proper formatting—such as headings, lists, and tables—so the PDF retains structural tags that assistive technologies can read. Include alternative text (alt text) for images and charts.