Reading Level
Summary:
WCAG 3.1.5, "Reading Level," is about making web content more accessible by ensuring it's easy to read and understand, especially important for users with cognitive disabilities, learning difficulties, or those who are not native speakers of the content's language.
What:
This guideline encourages content to be written at a lower secondary education level or provide a version that meets this standard if the nature of the content requires a more advanced reading level.
Why:
Simplifying the reading level of web content broadens its accessibility, making it understandable to a larger audience, including those with cognitive disabilities or limited language proficiency.
Examples and Scenarios:
- Government Websites: Providing simplified summaries of complex legal or policy documents.
- Educational Materials: Offering alternative, easier-to-read versions of advanced academic texts.
- Financial Services: Explaining complex financial terms and conditions in simpler language.
How to Comply:
- Websites: Create content that's easily understandable, use plain language, or offer simplified versions of complex texts.
- Mobile Apps: Ensure in-app content, especially educational or informational material, is accessible in terms of reading level.
- Software Applications: Include options for simpler language or explanations within the application for complex features or documentation.
Exceptions:
- Specialized or Technical Content: Content that is meant for experts or professionals in a specific field may inherently require a higher reading level.
- Literary Works: Creative or literary texts, where language complexity is intrinsic to the work.
- Name and Logos: Brands, names, or logos that inherently contain complex language or terms.