Why testing with screen readers matters
Screen readers convert digital text into speech or Braille, allowing visually impaired users to access content. Testing with screen readers is essential because:
- Ensures accessibility: Testing reveals issues that could prevent visually impaired users from fully engaging with your content.
- Improves structure and clarity: Screen readers rely on well-structured HTML. Testing ensures that headings, lists, and other elements are clear and organized.
- Uncovers hidden issues: Screen reader testing can reveal missing alt text, unclear link labels, or non-descriptive headings that might otherwise go unnoticed.
- Supports WCAG standards: Testing with screen readers helps you comply with WCAG guidelines for accessible content.
Best practices for testing content with screen readers
Understand how screen readers work
Familiarize yourself with screen readers and their functionality.
- Screen readers convert text to speech or Braille, allowing users to navigate content via keyboard commands.
- Popular screen readers include NVDA (Windows), VoiceOver (macOS and iOS), and JAWS (Windows).
Prepare your content
Ensure your content is structured for accessibility.
- Use semantic HTML: Properly tag headings (
<h1>to<h6>), paragraphs (<p>), lists (<ul>,<ol>), and links (<a>). - Add descriptive alt text to images: Alt text conveys essential information about images to users who can’t see them.
- Label links clearly: Link text should describe where the link goes. Avoid vague text like “Click here” or “Read more.”
Conduct screen reader testing
Use a screen reader to experience your content as a visually impaired user would.
- Navigate through headings: Check if headings are in a logical order and accurately describe sections.
- Test links and buttons: Ensure each link or button is clearly labeled and announced correctly.
- Listen for coherence: Have the screen reader read the content aloud to ensure it flows logically, with lists, tables, and other elements making sense.
- Check for hidden content: Ensure no off-screen elements or hidden text disrupts the user experience.
Address accessibility issues
Resolve any issues discovered during testing.
- Refine structure if needed: Revisit HTML structure if the screen reader struggles to navigate, ensuring headings, lists, and other elements are in order.
- Revise alt text and link descriptions: Make descriptions clear and meaningful.
- Ensure logical flow: Rearrange content as needed to improve clarity and coherence.
Test on multiple screen readers
Different screen readers interpret content slightly differently, so testing across devices and platforms is vital.
- Use multiple screen readers: Test on at least two screen readers for comprehensive feedback.
- Test on mobile devices: Mobile users interact with content differently, so check accessibility across both desktop and mobile.
Iterate and improve
Screen reader testing should be part of your ongoing content review.
- Make it a routine: Regularly test new and existing content to maintain accessibility standards.
- Gather feedback from users: When possible, consult screen reader users for additional insights and suggestions.