Success criterion 3.1.5
Reading Level
When text requires reading ability more advanced than the lower secondary education level, supplemental content or an alternative version is available.
- Level AAA
- Principle 3: Understandable
- Guideline 3.1: Readable
In a user’s words
“Is this a website or a PhD dissertation? Simplify the language!”
What each role can do
- Product manager
- Provide alternative versions or supplemental content for advanced text.
- Designer
- Include simpler explanations or offer a 'plain language' option for complex content.
- Developer
- Implement mechanisms like a toggle button for switching between advanced and simpler text.
- Tester
- Check that alternative versions or supplementary content are functional and easily accessible.
Once it is fixed
“Ah, much better. Now it's like talking to a friend, not attending a lecture. Thanks!”
Share this with your team
The quotes are written to illustrate the criterion. They are not testimonials from real people. For the official wording, find 3.1.5 in the W3C quick reference for WCAG 2.2 (opens in a new tab).
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