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Accessiblity tools

Use the tools below to identify and fix common accessibility issues like color contrast, missing alt text, and keyboard navigation. These resources are free, easy to use, and support key WCAG 2.1 AA principles.

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Whether you're creating content, designing interfaces, or testing digital products, you'll find tools here for both quick fixes and deeper audits. Start simple or explore advanced options if you're ready to go further.

Visual tools

WebAIM logo

WebAIM Contrast Checker

Check if your text and background colors meet WCAG contrast standards. Just enter your hex codes and get instant feedback.

WAVE logo

WAVE Evaluation Tool

A browser-based tool that highlights accessibility issues on any webpage, including contrast, alt text, and heading structure.

Screen reader testing

NVDA (Windows)

A free screen reader for Windows that lets you experience your content the way blind and visually impaired users might.

VoiceOver (Mac)

Built into all Apple devices, VoiceOver reads aloud on-screen content and helps you understand how screen reader users navigate your site.

NVDA logo
Mac logo

Keyboard navigation

No special tools needed!

Can you use your content without a mouse? Many users rely on a keyboard (or assistive tech that mimics one) to move through websites, apps, and documents.

 

Here’s how to test yours:

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  • Press Tab to move forward through interactive elements like links, buttons, and form fields.

  • Press Shift + Tab to move backward.

  • Press Enter to activate links or buttons.

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💡 While testing, ask yourself:

  • Can I reach everything with the keyboard alone?

  • Is there a visible focus indicator (like a highlight or outline)?

  • Can I open and close menus or forms without a mouse?

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If you can’t, it’s a sign that your content isn’t fully accessible—yet.

 

Learn More:

Keyboard icon

Alt text review

Alt text describes the content or purpose of an image. It’s essential for screen reader users and should be included for meaningful images. Decorative images should be marked so they’re skipped.

WAVE Evaluation Tool

A browser-based tool that highlights accessibility issues on any webpage, including contrast, alt text, and heading structure.

WAVE logo

Or just right-click any image → “Inspect” → look for the alt=" " tag

Computer mouse

Accessibility checklist

Rock the Docs Accessibility Checklist

I created this checklist to help content creators, designers, and digital teams spot common accessibility issues. It’s short, practical, and based on key WCAG 2.1 principles like contrast, headings, and alt text.

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  • Use it during planning, writing, design, or final review to keep accessibility at the heart of your workflow.

  • Download it, print it, or use it online—whatever fits how you work.

 

Need a copy you can use your way? Open the checklist in Google Docs. Edit it, print it, or keep it handy for your next project.

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Prefer to click your way through it? Use the Google Forms version for a quick, no-pressure checkup on your content’s accessibility.

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Want to go pro?

If you're working in UX, QA, or technical content strategy, these professional-grade tools offer more advanced testing and automation options.

 

Note: No sponsors, no sketchy links.
We don’t do sponsored content, affiliate deals, or “Top 10 Tools That Totally Coincidentally Paid Us.” If it’s listed here, it’s because it’s genuinely useful—not because someone bought a banner.

Rock the Docs logo

axe DevToolsls 

Browser extension for automated accessibility testing
 

Accessibility Insights 

Microsoft's toolkit for fast checks and guided WCAG tests

Siteimprove

Enterprise platform for content quality, SEO, and accessibility monitoring. Often used in higher ed and large orgs.

Lighthouse (Chrome DevTools)

Built-in audit tool with accessibility scoring

Pa11y

Open-source command-line tool for running WCAG checks across entire sites or pages.

EqualWeb

A solution providing automated and manual accessibility testing, along with remediation services.

Looking for more guidance?

Tools are just one part of creating accessible content. For help with writing tips, design do’s and don’ts, and additional learning resources, head over to the Best practices & resources page.

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