How to write for young people - a guide
In order to ensure that any information is accessible to everyone, it is important to remember that all individuals are at their own level.
You may not know the access needs of your entire audience so its best to follow a few simple rules to ensure the maximum possible accessibility of a document.
Young people’s top tips
Know your audience
- Be aware of the specific challenges or needs your audience may face, such as difficulties with reading, comprehension, sensory processing, or attention
- Adapt language and tone to the age range of your audience
Use clear and simple language
- Write short and clear sentences to make the content easier to follow
- Avoid jargon, acronyms, complex words, or expressions that may be confusing
- Use clear examples to explain difficult to understand ideas
- Use simple and engaging language that grabs attention and keeps it
Make sure structure and layout is clear
- Break content into sections with clear headings
- Use lists to organise information in a simple format
- Write instructions in order to help understanding
Support easy readability
- Use accessible fonts like Arial or Verdana, in a large size (12–14 pt or larger for print materials)
- High contrast between text and background for readability
- Include pictures, photos, or diagrams to reinforce understanding (with describing captions)
Be positive and include everyone
- Use positive language to motivate and inspire
- Show diversity in examples, images, and language
- Don’t add content that could reinforce biases or stigmatise disabilities
Consider sensory needs
- Don’t overload and avoid cluttered pages or lots of details
- Use predictable layouts to create a sense of familiarity
- If digital, ensure features like buttons and links are easy to find and use
Provide different formats
- Offer content in multiple formats (audio and video) to support different learning preferences
- Use tools like Widgit or Makaton symbols where appropriate
- If needed, include translations into British Sign Language (BSL)
Test and get feedback
- Share drafts with children and young people, to make sure they are happy and understand it
- If it doesn’t work for them, use their feedback so it meets the needs of the target audience
Accessibility standards
- Follow web accessibility guidelines for any digital content
- Use clear layouts with plenty of white / light blue space
