Tendoo Design

Accessible writing

Writing guidelines to ensure Tendoo content is readable, usable, and inclusive — including for people using assistive technologies.

Accessible Writing

Writing for accessibility means creating content that works for everyone — including people who use screen readers, rely on keyboard navigation, or experience cognitive or visual disabilities.

Accessible content isn’t just nice to have — it’s essential for inclusive, user-friendly products.


✅ Key Principles

PrincipleWhat It Means
Be clearUse simple, direct language that’s easy to understand.
Be descriptiveDon’t rely on vague words like “click here” or “this.”
Be respectfulAvoid ableist language or assumptions.
Be structuredUse proper headings, lists, and order for screen readers.

  • Use meaningful, descriptive link labels.
  • Never use generic phrases like "click here," "read more," or "learn more" on their own.

✅ "View our accessibility guide"
🚫 "Click here to learn more"

<a href="/docs/accessibility-guide">View our accessibility guide</a>

🖼️ Alt Text for Images

  • Add alt text to all meaningful images.
  • Decorative images should have alt="" or aria-hidden="true".

"An example of a completed form"alt="" for purely decorative illustrations


🚨 Error Messages

  • Be specific and helpful.
  • Include both textual and visual cues — don’t rely on color alone.

✅ "Password must be at least 8 characters." 🚫 "Something’s wrong."


⌨️ Keyboard & Screen Reader Support

Write with users in mind who:

  • Use screen readers (screen order matters!).
  • Don’t use a mouse.
  • Prefer reduced motion.
  • Navigate using headings and lists.

✅ Use clear headings so screen reader users can navigate logically.


🧠 Writing for Cognitive Accessibility

  • Avoid idioms, metaphors, or slang. 🚫 "Hit the ground running" ✅ "Get started quickly"

  • Break up long paragraphs.

  • Use simple lists or step-by-step instructions.


🔤 Language and Labels

  • Use consistent terminology (e.g., don’t switch between "sign in" and "log in").
  • Don’t use acronyms or abbreviations unless you explain them.

✅ "Download the CSV (Comma-Separated Values) file"



Great content is inclusive content. Writing with accessibility in mind ensures more people can use — and benefit from — your product.