Use a simple tense and voice
Description
Use the tense and the voice is easiest to understand.
User Story
I easily understand the activities being described, who is involved and when.
What To Do
Use the tense and the voice is easiest to understand. In English this is usually the present tense and active voice. Speak directly to the user, and use the simplest form of verbs.
This will help ensure that content is accessible to people with lower reading levels as described in the WCAG Guideline 3.1.5 Reading Level
How It Helps
This benefits many people, including those with language impairments, learning disabilities or a poor memory.
Present tense makes it clear that an action is being, or should be, performed.
Active voice makes it clear who is supposed to do what.
More details
- Other voices or tenses can be used if they have been shown to be easier to understand or friendlier.
- In languages where present tense and active voice do not exist, or are not clearer, use the tense and the voice that are easiest to understand.
- If you are writing about past or future events, do not use the present tense as that will be confusing.
Examples
Sufficient
Use of present tense and active voice:
- Press the on button;
- You must do it.
Insufficient
Use of passive voice and mixed tense:
- The on button should be pressed;
- It must be done.
Related Accessibility Guidelines and Techniques
Related Patterns
Key Terms
? Coga is developing a list of terms so should we repeat here or simple link to it ?
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