Ensuring accessibility on social media allows more people to engage with your content, including individuals with disabilities. Accessible posts improve readability, usability, and inclusivity while also expanding your reach. By following best practices, you can create a more welcoming experience for all users.
Use Descriptive Alt Text for Images
Alternative text (alt text) describes images for people who use screen readers. When adding alt text:
- Be concise and descriptive, explaining the essential details of the image.
- Avoid phrases like “image of” or “picture of” since screen readers already indicate that it’s an image.
- Include relevant context if the image conveys important information.
- Use platform-specific alt text features, such as those in Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.
Provide Captions and Transcripts for Videos
Captions make videos accessible to people who are deaf or hard of hearing and also benefit viewers in noisy environments. Best practices for captions include:
- Using closed captions whenever possible so users can toggle them on or off.
- Ensuring captions are synchronized with spoken words.
- Including descriptions of non-verbal audio (e.g., [music playing], [applause]).
- Providing a full transcript for videos and podcasts, making the content accessible to screen reader users.
Use CamelCase for Hashtags
Hashtags should be formatted in CamelCase (capitalizing the first letter of each word) to improve readability for screen readers and all users. For example:
- ✅ #AccessibleDesign instead of ❌ #accessibledesign.
- ✅ #DigitalInclusion instead of ❌ #digitalinclusion.
Ensure High Color Contrast and Readable Fonts
Text should have sufficient contrast against its background to be easily readable. To improve visibility:
- Use high-contrast color combinations (e.g., dark text on a light background).
- Avoid using color alone to convey meaning; add labels or icons where necessary.
- Choose legible fonts and avoid overly decorative or compressed text.
Write Clear and Concise Text
Plain and simple language benefits all users, including those with cognitive disabilities or non-native speakers. To enhance readability:
- Use short sentences and paragraphs.
- Avoid jargon or overly complex wording.
- Use bullet points or emojis sparingly to break up text without overwhelming the reader.
Make Links Descriptive
Instead of generic phrases like “click here” or “read more,” use meaningful link text that describes the destination. For example:
- ✅ Read our accessibility guide instead of ❌ Click here.
- ✅ Watch our tutorial on captions instead of ❌ See more.
Test with Assistive Technologies
Regularly test your social media posts to ensure accessibility. Use:
- Screen readers like VoiceOver (iOS), TalkBack (Android), or NVDA (Windows) to check content navigation.
- Keyboard-only navigation to ensure users can interact with all elements.
- Color contrast checkers to verify readability.
Conclusion
Making social media posts accessible improves engagement, expands your audience, and fosters inclusivity. By adding alt text, captions, high-contrast visuals, and clear text formatting, you ensure that all users—including those with disabilities—can fully participate in your content. Accessibility benefits everyone and creates a better user experience for all.