Five quick checks to make your website more accessible today

Accessibility can feel like a big topic, but you do not need to do everything at once to start making improvements. In fact, some of the most important steps are simple and quick to put in place.

Where to start with accessibility

Here are five easy things you can check on your website today to help make it more inclusive and user-friendly for everyone.

1. Add alt text to images

Alt text helps people using screen readers understand what an image shows. It is also useful if an image does not load or if someone is browsing with images turned off.

Describe the image clearly and briefly. If it is decorative, you can leave the alt text blank, but never just repeat the file name or stuff it with keywords.

2. Use proper headings

Screen readers use headings to help users navigate a page. That only works if your headings are structured properly.

Use H1 for the page title, H2 for main sections, H3 for sub-sections, and so on. Avoid using bold text to fake a heading — that does not help with accessibility or search.

3. Check your link text

Links should make sense on their own. Avoid vague labels like “click here” or “read more” without context.

Instead, write link text that describes where the link goes or what someone will find if they follow it.

4. Test your colour contrast

Some colour combinations look fine to you but are hard to read for others — especially for people with visual impairments or colour blindness.

Use a free contrast checker to test your text and background colours. If the text feels like it fades into the background, it is worth adjusting.

5. Make sure it works with a keyboard

Some people navigate entirely by keyboard. If your website relies on mouse-only actions or awkward tabbing, it will not work well for them.

Try using your site without a mouse. Can you access everything with the keyboard alone? If not, it might be time for some adjustments.

A few small changes can make a big difference

You do not need a huge rebuild to improve accessibility. A few thoughtful updates can help a lot more people use your website with ease — and that benefits everyone.

Photo: Pixabay