In a world where access to information is key to social participation, Easy Reading has established itself as an essential tool to guarantee reading comprehension for all people. It is not just about simplifying texts, but about making them truly accessible, especially for those who face cognitive, linguistic or educational barriers.
This method, supported by international organizations and regulations such as UNE 153101, represents a commitment to real inclusion. In this guide you will find everything you need to understand, apply and value Easy Reading in different contexts.
What is Easy Reading?
Easy Reading (also known as Easy-to-Read) is a writing and documentary design methodology that aims to make texts understandable to people with reading comprehension difficulties. This includes the use of clear language, simple sentences, logical structure and visual supports.
Who is Easy Reading aimed at?
This approach especially benefits:
- People with intellectual or developmental disabilities.
- Older people with cognitive impairment.
- People with a low level of literacy.
- Migrants with limited language knowledge.
- People with dyslexia or learning disorders.
- General public facing complex legal or administrative texts.
Official Easy Reading Guidelines (UNE Standard 153101)
1. Language and Vocabulary
- Common and everyday words.
- Avoid technicalities and jargon. If used, they should be explained.
- Consistency in the use of terms.
- Avoid metaphors or double meanings.
- Numbers with figures (for example, 10 instead of “ten”).
2. Structure of sentences and paragraphs
- Short and direct sentences (one idea per sentence).
- Chronological or logical order.
- Active voice: “The association published the report” instead of “The report was published…”.
- Short paragraphs (3–5 lines) with space between them.
- Simple punctuation: avoid complex subordinate clauses and semicolons.
3. Design and layout
- Sans serif font (Arial, Verdana) and minimum size of 12-14 pt.
- Line spacing of 1.5.
- Text aligned left (not justified).
- Good visual contrast: dark text on a light background.
- Do not divide words at the end of lines.
- Use of clear and well-organized titles.
4. Content and visual aids
- Essential information: without excesses or unnecessary embellishments.
- Relevant images and pictograms to reinforce the message.
- Practical and everyday examples.
- Validation by people from the target group before publishing.
Examples of Easy Reading Texts
Let’s look at a simple case:
Original text:
The General State Administration establishes a formal claim period of ten business days from the date of notification.
Easy Reading Version:
You can claim within 10 business days from when you receive this notification.
These adjustments allow more people to understand their rights and duties without barriers.
Relevant Standards and Entities
- Norma UNE 153101:2018 EX: Official document with detailed guidelines in Spain.
- CEAPAT: Promotes universal accessibility, including cognitive.
- IFLA: Publishes international Easy-to-Read guidelines.
- Full Inclusion: Pioneering organization in validation of Easy Reading materials.
- ISO 21801-1:2020: International standard on cognitive accessibility.
Benefits of Easy Reading
- Improves personal autonomy.
- Encourages citizen participation.
- Reduces the information gap.
- Facilitates social and educational inclusion.
- Promotes a culture of respect and equity.
Conclusion
Easy Reading is not a concession, but a concrete way of applying the principle of equality. Its implementation not only improves accessibility, but also democratizes knowledge. Applying it in official documents, websites, forms and everyday content is moving towards a more just and understanding society.
