Make your website content more readable by writing clearly, structuring for scanning, optimizing typography and spacing, and testing with users and tools. Most visitors skim rather than read word-for-word, so prioritize scannability, clarity, and comfort.

Anyone who has had to endure the slog over on X with it’s absurdly long worded articles probably knows exactly what I’m talking about here.

Here are a few pointers to help get you started along the path of having people actually engaging with your more readable content:

Write in Plain, Clear Language

• • Use short sentences (aim for 15–20 words on average) and short paragraphs (2–4 sentences or one idea per paragraph).
  • Prefer active voice and everyday words. Replace jargon or complex terms with simpler alternatives (e.g., “use” instead of “utilize”).
  • Front-load key information (inverted pyramid style) so the main point appears early.
  • Target a reading level accessible to a broad audience (often around 7th-8th grade for general content).

Structure Content for Easy Scanning

Users scan in patterns (F-shape or spotted/layer-cake). Help them:

• • Use a clear hierarchy of headings (H1 for the page title, H2/H3 for sections). Make headings descriptive so readers can understand the page from headings alone.
  • Break long text into short paragraphs, subheadings, and sections.
  • Use bulleted or numbered lists for steps, features, or multiple items.
  • Bold key phrases sparingly for emphasis (avoid overusing it).
  • Start sections with the answer or main idea.

Optimize Typography for Comfort

• • Font size: Body text at a minimum of 16px (preferably 16–18px). Use relative units (rem/em) so users can resize text.
  • Font choice: Prefer familiar, simple sans-serif fonts (e.g., Inter, system fonts, Open Sans, Roboto) for body text. Limit to 1–2 font families. Avoid decorative fonts for long passages.
  • Line height (leading): 1.5-1.7 for body text.
  • Line length (measure): 45–75 characters per line (around 60–70 is often ideal). Use CSS max-width: 60–70ch or similar.
  • Alignment: Left-align (ragged right) for left-to-right languages. Avoid fully justified text, which creates uneven spacing (“rivers”).
  • Contrast: Minimum 4.5:1 ratio for normal text (WCAG AA). Dark text on light backgrounds generally works best.
  • Avoid all-caps for long text, excessive italics, or underlining (except for links).

Use White Space and Layout Effectively

• • Add generous spacing between paragraphs, sections, and elements.
  • Keep layouts uncluttered. Limit columns and ensure ample margins.
  • Make content responsive so it remains readable on mobile (test line length, font size, and stacking).
  • Ensure text reflows properly when users zoom to 200%.

Complement Text with Visuals

• • Break up text with relevant images, diagrams, icons, or short videos.
  • Place visuals near the related content.
  • Always provide descriptive alt text for accessibility and SEO.

Prioritize Accessibility

Follow WCAG guidelines for readable text (contrast, resizable text, language declaration, plain language). This improves usability for everyone, including people with low vision, dyslexia, or cognitive differences. Set the page language in HTML (lang attribute) and support text spacing adjustments without breaking the layout.

Test and Refine

• • Run content through free readability checkers (e.g., Hemingway Editor web version, Check Readability, Readability Formulas, or similar tools that score Flesch-Kincaid, sentence length, and passive voice).
  • Check contrast with tools like WebAIM’s contrast checker.
  • Test on real devices, different screen sizes, and with actual users. Observe where people get stuck or skip content.
  • Review mobile views and zoom behavior.

Quick checklist:

• • Short sentences and paragraphs?
  • Clear headings and lists?
  • Body text ≥16px with 1.5+ line height and 45–75 character lines?
  • Strong contrast and left alignment?
  • Enough white space?
  • Plain language and scannable structure?
  • Tested on mobile and with readability tools?

Applying these changes consistently raises engagement, reduces bounce rates, and makes your content more inclusive and effective. Start with the highest-impact items (plain language, headings, short paragraphs, and font size/spacing) and iterate based on testing.