How To: Use Color and Contrast So Everyone Can Read It

Learn how to use color so your documents, slides, and emails are easy for everyone to read, including people with low vision or color blindness.

NCU follows WCAG 2.1 Level AA, the same standard used in Accessible Forms Guidelines.

Use enough contrast

  • Use dark text on a light background, or light text on a dark background.
  • WCAG 2.1 AA asks for a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for regular text and 3:1 for large text. The Accessibility Checker flags text that's too faint.
  • Don't put text over photos or busy backgrounds.

Don't rely on color alone

Instead of
Do this
“Required fields are in red”
Mark them with the word Required
A chart where only the colors tell lines apart
Label each line, or use different line styles
Green and red to mean yes and no
Add the words, or icons like ✓ and ✗

Sticking with your app's default theme colors is usually a safe choice.

Quick check

  • ☐ Text is easy to read against its background.
  • ☐ Nothing is shown by color alone.
  • ☐ No text sits on top of an image.

Get help

Questions? Submit a request through Operating System or Software Support, call the IT Service Desk at 612.343.4170, or visit Miller Hall 226.

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