Manual Accessibility Testing
Automated tools are helpful, but they can’t check everything. After you’ve run a scan, spend time manually reviewing your content using the following:
Content Review
Zoom your browser to 200% and scan through your page. Ask yourself:
- Does everything still display in the right order?
- Can you see all the content without scrolling sideways?
- Do your links make sense out of context? (e.g., “Download syllabus” vs. “Click here”)
- Do your headings follow a clear order? (Heading 2 → Heading 3, etc.)
- Is every image described meaningfully, or marked decorative if needed?
Keyboard Navigation
Try navigating your site using only the keyboard. Use:
- Tab to move forward
- Shift + Tab to move backward
- Enter to follow links or press buttons
- Spacebar to activate checkboxes
- Escape to close pop-ups
What to Check
- Can you reach every interactive element (buttons, menus, forms)?
- Is the order logical?
- Do you always see where your cursor is (visible focus)?
- Can you skip past long navigation menus (e.g., via a “Skip to main content” link)?
Screen Reader Testing
A screen reader can help you hear how your content is announced to users who rely on assistive tech. You don’t need to become an expert, just test basic navigation.
Free Options
- Mac users: VoiceOver (built-in)
- Windows users: NVDA (free)
Start by testing if your page title is announced, headings are read in the correct order, and links/buttons are clear and labeled. For more detailed information, visit: