University Style Guide

Print Accessibility

Print materials may create an inadvertent barrier of access for the visually impaired. There are some things you can do to make materials easier to read for those with vision impairments or cognitive difficulties.

Use Appropriate Type Size and Font

Use 12-point text, at minimum. Sans serif fonts are easiest to read.

Keep Contrast High

Use dark ink on white or very pale paper. Reverse type (use white or light type on a dark background) only if the type size is large and thick.

Consider Color Blindness

Do not rely on color alone to convey meaning. Some readers will not be able to access all your information (for example, distinguish red type or read pie charts that are separated only by color).

One of the easiest tests for accessibility with color blindness is to print your page with a black and white printer or desaturate your page. If the information still makes sense in black and white, then you’re good to go. If not, alter your images so the information does not rely on color to be understood. Fixes include using a fill pattern in addition to colors to differentiate pie chart areas or indicating important deadlines in bold or with an asterisk in addition to red type color.

Keep It Clear and Simple

Avoid large blocks of type. Don't use a proliferation of fonts or effects like bold, italics, and hyphenation in excess.

Embrace White Space

Use wide margins and leave space between paragraphs.

Include an Accommodation Statement

This guide includes a section on Accommodation Statements that includes suggested language.

Save a Digital File

This can be read using assistive technology or printed out in alternative sizes upon request.