A Practical Guide to Writing for Mobile Readers
Adapting content for people reading on phones, with shorter paragraphs, clear headings and front-loaded information.
Dana Whitfield
Why does it matter?
Many readers use phones, where long paragraphs and dense layouts are harder to read and navigate.
What are the numbers?
- Screen size less content is visible at once
- Scanning readers skim headings and first lines
- Reflow content must work at narrow widths
- Tap targets links need enough space to tap
What should I do?
- Keep paragraphs short
- Front-load key information
- Use descriptive headings
- Avoid wide tables where possible
- Test content on real phones
What should I avoid?
Avoid:
- Long introductions
- Wide tables without responsive handling
- Dense link lists
- Text embedded in images
When should I get help?
Short answer Bring in help when mobile readers engage less than desktop readers.
Where this comes from
- Nielsen Norman Group — Reading content on mobile devices
- W3C Web Accessibility Initiative — Understanding SC 1.4.10 Reflow
The figures and practices above come from the sources listed.
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