Text
When working with text there are some do's and don'ts that can help make sure that your page is easy to read. Using spacing between sections, replacing content with snippets, and using buttons instead of links are just a few of the ways you can improve user experience on your site. See the do's and don'ts below for some examples of what not to do and alternatives you can use instead.
Readability
Don't Create Walls of Text
When entering several paragraphs of information it can become hard to read.
Add Spacing
When finishing a section of text hit Enter to create an empty paragraph, or Shift + Enter to create a blank line. Doing this multiple times and combining with a horizontal line to break up sections can make them easier to read.
Use Snippets
Break your text into sections using cards or divide your text using columns. There are several snippets and styles of each to customize your page.
Text Formatting
Don't Overuse Bold, Uppercase, or Italics
If everything is bold, nothing is bold. Use bold text sparingly to increase scannability of keywords. The same is true for all uppercase text, if there is no variation in the height of characters text becomes harder to read. Italics should be used to emphasize words. All of these styles have an effect on how a screen reader will read the text to a user, so use them appropriately.
Emphasize Keywords and Phrases
Use bold and italics sparingly to drive home the important elements of your text and increase the scannability. This makes it easier for users to find the information you want and to the actions you want them to take.
Important Links
Don't Hide Important Links
Placing links inside of long paragraphs of blocks of text can make them harder to identify when scanning a page.
Use Buttons
Buttons are a great way to call attention to an important link. Include a short message or information about the link above it. When entering text for your link describe the action or page you are linking to (ex. About Us, Register Today, Learn More). Avoid using phrases like 'Click Here' or lenthy text such as 'Resister for Classes in Spring Semester'. Instead say 'Register Now' or 'Get Started'.
Messages & Notifications
Don't Create Large Text or Bold Messages
It can be tempting to use the WYSIWYG editor to create extremely large, uppercase, bold, or colored text. Avoid this method when entering important messages.
Use Alerts
Inform users of important messages using the alert snippet. These messages are available in 4 contextual colors, include an icon, and can be placed anywhere. You can also use the _notification.pcf to include an alert at the top of every page on your site.
Need Assistance?
The WKU ITS Service Desk is here to help. Give us a call, chat with a representative online, use the Self-Help Knowledge Base and more.
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