Research guides: Best practices for design & accessibility

This page outlines some key web writing principles that we should always consider when creating or editing a LibGuide.

On the web, people are more likely to skim. To make your content more scannable,

• Use bullets instead of blocks of text
• Use subheadings, bulleted lists, or numbered lists to chunk information so that that users will notice it 
• Include only one idea per bullet or paragraph
• Use white space when possible 
• Be aware that people tend to read in an F shape online, scanning the top and sides first rather than reading straight through like a traditional text

Other key concepts in writing for the web

• Be concise and resist the urge to include everything
• Use images selectively to add interest or provide examples, but avoid distracting from content that users need
• Avoid jargon; use plain language