Web Content Guidelines

Writing Content for Online Readers

People come to our website with a specific question or task in mind. When writing content, be sure you provide the answer to their question quickly and ensure the content will help them accomplish that task.

Online reading is similar to reading a newspaper. When you pick up a newspaper, you don't start with the first word and read all the way to the bottom of the page. You scan for headlines that stand out, stopping and reading the ones that seem interesting.  Here are some basic tips for writing user-friendly online content:

• Use short paragraphs. Large blocks of text can look like walls, and act as such to the user.
• Use easy-to-understand words and phrases. Don't get fancy.
• Front-load your text. The first paragraph is key. It should be brief, and to the point to quickly engage the user.
• Use Headings or tables to break up long content. Studies show pages are viewed in blocks of content.
• Avoid using all caps (except for acronyms). Research shows it is harder to read and it is not ADA compliant.
• Keep content as brief as possible. Web users skim to find what they want or they quickly leave the page.
• Write in an active voice. Get to the point. The active voice has a naturally more urgent tone.
• Important!! When you think you're done, look again. Cut & cut more until you convey the most concise message.
• Acronyms & abbreviations should always be spelled out the first time.  Don't assume people know what they mean.
• Use 4-8 word descriptive text for hyperlinks instead of generic terms like click here, learn more, download now, etc.

 

The College gives everyone access to Grammarly. It's a great tool to use and will help keep copy easy to read.  |  Login Instructions 

Keep your content up to date. Out-of-date content reflects poorly on the website and the College and degrades the trust of the user to believe information they find on our website.