Inclusive UX writing means creating clear, simple, and welcoming microcopy that makes all users feel understood and empowered—regardless of their abilities, backgrounds, or experiences. Accessible microcopy doesn't just benefit users with specific accessibility needs; it enhances the user experience for everyone interacting with your app or website.
Let’s dive into how you can optimize your user interface copy for accessibility, ensuring your microcopy reaches the widest possible audience.
Every user deserves a smooth, enjoyable interaction with your product. Yet, unintentionally complex or unclear microcopy can create barriers, especially for users with cognitive impairments, language differences, visual disabilities, or limited tech literacy. Inclusive UX copywriting removes these obstacles, creating intuitive experiences that feel effortless and welcoming to all users.
Here’s how you can make your microcopy more inclusive, accessible, and user-friendly.
Clear, straightforward microcopy helps users quickly understand what actions to take next. Avoid jargon, idioms, and complicated sentences, which can confuse or alienate users.
Less accessible:
"Confirm that you would like to proceed with the transaction."
More accessible:
"Confirm your payment."
Shorter, simpler statements improve readability, reduce cognitive load, and make your user interface copy accessible to people of varying literacy levels and language proficiencies.
Active voice sentences feel direct and personal, making your microcopy friendlier and clearer. Passive voice often complicates sentences unnecessarily, increasing confusion.
Passive voice (unclear):
"Your request has been received."
Active voice (clearer):
"We received your request."
Plain, direct language gives users confidence and enhances their overall user experience.
Effective microcopy clearly instructs users about what to do next, reducing confusion and anxiety. Buttons, forms, and instructional messages should clearly outline the user's next step.
Vague CTA:
"Continue"
Inclusive CTA:
"Continue to Checkout"
Clearly communicating the purpose and outcome of interactions ensures everyone, including users who rely on screen readers or other assistive technology, understands exactly what to expect next.
Inclusive UX writing acknowledges that users interact with your product under varying circumstances. Acknowledge different scenarios clearly and respectfully in your microcopy.
For example, when creating error messages, provide precise explanations along with easy-to-follow solutions:
"Your password must be at least 8 characters long. Please try again."
This type of message is helpful for all users, particularly those with cognitive or memory impairments who benefit from explicit guidance.
Empathy is a cornerstone of accessible UX writing. Using a positive, supportive tone of voice reduces stress for users, especially in frustrating situations like errors or confusing tasks.
Insensitive error message:
"Invalid email entered."
Empathetic alternative:
"Please check your email address—it doesn't look quite right."
This positive and conversational approach makes interactions more comfortable and human for everyone.
Ensuring consistent clarity and inclusivity across every screen and interaction can be challenging, especially at scale. AI UX writing tools like UX Ghost.ai can streamline this process by rapidly generating clear, accessible microcopy alternatives tailored to your specific accessibility guidelines.
For instance, UX Ghost.ai can quickly produce multiple inclusive variations of instructional copy for a registration form:
"Enter your first and last name below."
"Please tell us your full name to continue."
These quick, AI-generated alternatives help UX writers choose the clearest, most inclusive copy that best meets diverse user needs.
Here are actionable steps you can start implementing immediately to make your UX microcopy more inclusive:
Use headings and bullet points: Structured content helps users easily scan and digest information.
Write descriptive links: Avoid vague link text like "click here." Instead, clearly state the link's destination ("View your order history").
Test with diverse users: Regularly test microcopy with diverse user groups to understand different perspectives and improve inclusivity.
Optimize for assistive technologies: Ensure microcopy works seamlessly with screen readers and voice assistants by keeping language clear and descriptive.
As you work toward accessibility, watch out for these pitfalls in your UX writing:
Complex vocabulary: Opt for simpler synonyms whenever possible.
Unnecessary abbreviations: Spell out terms to avoid confusion (e.g., "September" instead of "Sept").
Impersonal language: Engage users directly by using second-person ("you") to build connection and empathy.
Great inclusive microcopy can transform user experiences:
Airbnb: Clear, straightforward booking instructions—"Book your stay"—easily understandable by anyone.
Spotify: Empathetic error messaging—"Can't connect right now. Check your internet and try again."—that clearly explains the issue without confusing technical details.
These companies succeed by prioritizing accessible, inclusive microcopy that makes their products welcoming and easy to use for everyone.
Optimizing UX microcopy for accessibility isn't just good ethics—it's smart UX design. Clear, inclusive microcopy makes your product intuitive and enjoyable for every user, enhancing engagement and loyalty. By adopting simple, empathetic language, considering diverse user contexts, and leveraging AI-powered tools like UX Ghost.ai, you can create microcopy that's accessible and appealing to all.
Inclusive UX writing means creating digital experiences that truly welcome everyone—no exceptions.
