Making your content accessible means that everyone can engage with your posts, no matter their abilities. Here are our favourite five simple ways to make your posts more inclusive.
1. Add Alt Text to Images
Alt text is a short description of your images that helps people who use screen readers understand what’s in your photos or graphics. Always describe the important details clearly. If you’re taking a sports journalism course, like those at //schoolofjournalism.co.uk/journalism-courses/sports/, adding clear alt text to images can help make your game coverage accessible to all readers.
2. Use AI to Auto-Generate Alt Text Across Platforms
If you post a lot of images, you can save time by using AI tools that generate alt text automatically. Always check the descriptions to make sure they are accurate and helpful.
3. Make Accessible Text
Write clearly and keep sentences short. Use headings, bullet points and enough spacing. Avoid small fonts or colour combinations that are hard to read and instead choose high-contrast colours. This helps people with visual impairments or reading difficulties engage with your text.
4. Be Considerate of Emojis
Emojis can be fun, but screen readers may read them out loud in confusing ways. Limit their use, and place them thoughtfully. If necessary, describe important emojis in your text.
5. Add Closed Captions and Subtitles to Videos
Many people watch videos without sound or have hearing difficulties. Always add closed captions or subtitles to make your videos accessible to everyone. Subtitles can also include descriptions of important sounds, such as music or sound effects.