Easy Reading is not just a writing technique: it is a cognitive accessibility tool that allows more people to understand texts that, otherwise, could be exclusive. These guidelines are essential to create documents, forms, web pages and other informational content that is understandable by everyone.
Easy Reading Whores
Applying these guidelines improves inclusion and allows people with intellectual disabilities, older adults or migrants to understand and actively participate in society.
Language and Vocabulary: Clarity above all
The language should be simple, direct and everyday. Here are some key principles:
- Common and familiar words: Use vocabulary that everyone can recognize. Example: “house” instead of “domicile”.
- Avoid technicalities and jargon: If a complex term is essential, explain it the first time it appears or include a glossary.
- Unambiguous: Do not use expressions with double meanings, irony or metaphors that are difficult to interpret.
- Terminological consistency: Always use the same term for the same idea.
- Be careful with acronyms and abbreviations: Write the full name the first time, followed by the acronym in parentheses. Example: World Health Organization (WHO).
- Numbers with figures: It is better to write “10” than “ten”.
Sentence and Paragraph Structure: Simple and organized ideas
Organizing the content correctly is vital to facilitate its understanding:
- Short sentences with a single idea: Example: “The bus arrives at 10.” instead of “The bus, which is often late, usually arrives at 10 in the morning.”
- Simple structure: Subject + verb + complements.
- Logical order: Use connectors like “first”, “after”, “last”.
- Active and positive voice: Prefer phrases like “The doctor explains the treatment” versus “The treatment was explained by the doctor.”
- Short paragraphs (3–5 lines): Each one should develop only one main idea.
- Paragraph spacing: Visually helps reading.
- Simple punctuation: Use full stop, full stop. Avoid semicolons and complex subordinate clauses.
Design and Layout: Making reading easy
A good design reinforces the readability of the text:
- Serif typography: Arial, Helvetica or Verdana. Minimum size: 12-14 points.
- 1.5 line spacing: Makes it easier to follow the lines without getting lost.
- Left-aligned text: Never justify text; The irregular right margin helps the eye find the start of the next line.
- Appropriate visual contrast: Dark text on a light background. Example: black on white or light beige.
- Do not divide words: Avoid cutting words with hyphens at the end of the line.
- Clear titles and subtitles: They make it easier to navigate the content.
Content and Visual Supports: Reinforce with examples and images
The content must be relevant and accompanied by useful visual elements:
- Prioritize the essential: Don’t overload with unnecessary information.
- Includes images, pictograms or icons: That are directly related to the text. For example, a pictogram of a doctor next to text about health.
- Everyday and concrete examples: They are key to explaining abstract concepts.
- Validation with the target audience: It is essential. The people to whom the text is directed must read it before it is published. Your comments help us improve the actual content.
If you need more information you can consult our section on easy reading regulations or the standard UNE 153101:2018 Standard
