WCAG 2 simplified by Joe Clark

Table of Contents

• Guideline 1 - Presentation. Design content that allows presentation according to the user’s needs and preferences
  • 1.1 Provide a text equivalent for all content that is not text.
  • 1.2 When using time-based presentations, synchronize any accessible equivalents.
  • 1.3 Use markup or a data model to provide the logical structure of content.
  • 1.4 Identify the primary language of text and text equivalents and all changes in language.
    • Note: I dropped human and natural completely. Neither is necessary, frankly.
  • 1.5 Keep content and structure separate from presentation.
    • Note: “Separate content and structure” can be read as a noun phrase, with separate as an adjective. This way it’s unambiguous.
• Guideline 2 - Interaction. Design content that allows interaction according to the user’s needs and preferences
  • 2.1 Handle input errors, such as misspellings.
  • 2.2 Provide consistent and predictable responses to user actions.
  • 2.3 Give users control of mechanisms that cause extreme changes in context.
    • Note: This is an example of a guideline that cannot be simplified further because it requires a fuller explanation just to understand the main point.
  • 2.4 When content requires a timed response, either give the user control over how long they can interact with the content or give them as much time as possible.
    • Note: I’m pretty sure that you really mean to add “or remove the requirement for a timed response entirely,” but I’ve seen no such indication yet.
  • 2.5 Use device-independent event handlers.
  • 2.6 Avoid causing the screen to flicker.
• Guideline 3. Comprehension: Make it as easy as possible to use and understand
  • 3.1 Use consistent presentation.
  • 3.2 Emphasize structure through presentation, positioning, and labels.
  • 3.3 Write as simply as possible in a way that remains appropriate for the site’s content.
    • Note: This is the only rendition that makes sense.
  • 3.4 Wherever possible, use a wide range of modes of expression.
    • Note: This too is the only rendition that makes sense.
  • 3.5 Annotate complex or unfamiliar information with summaries and definitions.
• Guideline 4. Technology considerations: Design for compatibility and interoperability
  • 4.1 Choose technologies that support the use of these guidelines.
  • 4.2 Use technologies according to specification.
  • 4.3 Design user interfaces so they are compatible with assistive technology.
  • 4.4 Design content so that, when presentation effects are turned off or not supported, the content is still usable.