content-designlisted

# Content Design Accessibility Skill > **Canonical source**: `examples/CONTENT_DESIGN_ACCESSIBILITY_BEST_PRACTICES.md` in `mgifford/ACCESSIBILITY.md` > This skill is derived from that file. When in doubt, the example is authoritative. Apply these rules when writing, editing, or reviewing any web content. --- ## Core Mandate Content design and accessibility are inseparable. A technically accessible page that is confusing or poorly structured still creates barriers. Design content for the widest possible audience: write clearly, structure logically, and present information in the order users need it. --- ## Severity Scale (this skill) | Level | Meaning | | --- | --- | | **Critical** | Content is completely inaccessible or incomprehensible to a disability group | | **Serious** | Significant barrier; unreasonable to expect workaround | | **Moderate** | Creates friction; workaround exists and is not too burdensome | | **Minor** | Best-practice gap; marginal impact | --- ## Critical: Images Must Have Appropriate Text Alternatives A meaningful image with no `alt` attribute or `alt=""` is **Critical** — blind users receive no information. A decorative image with descriptive `alt` is **Moderate** — it adds noise but does not block information. * Every informative image needs meaningful alt text that conveys its purpose, not just its appearance * Decorative images: `alt=""` (empty string — the attribute must still be present) * Do not rely on images alone to convey inform