What neurodivergence looks like online
Neurodivergent users do not share a single profile. An autistic user may want predictability and literal language. Someone with ADHD may need to scan, skip and resume without losing place. A reader with dyslexia processes text differently and benefits from clear typography. The shared theme is reducing cognitive load.
Common digital barriers
- Walls of text.
Dense paragraphs without structure are hard to scan or resume.
- Inconsistent navigation.
Layouts that shift between pages force the user to relearn each screen.
- Ambiguous language.
Idioms, jargon and figurative phrasing can be confusing or distressing.
- Surprise interactions.
Auto-playing media, popups and timed sessions disrupt focus.
- Sensory overload.
Animation, flashing, busy colour, and loud sound add up fast.
Design that helps
- Clear, plain language.
Short sentences. Active voice. Front-load the point.
- Visible structure.
Strong headings, bullet lists, and predictable layouts.
- User-controlled pace.
Pause, mute, extend session, and skip controls on every time-bound interaction.
- Calm defaults.
Animations off or reduced. Quiet colour palettes. Optional dense mode.
- Reading aids.
Adequate line spacing, generous paragraph spacing, and a serif/sans choice that doesn't force the reader to fight the font.
Who else this helps
Plain language, structure and pace controls help anyone who is rushed, tired, reading on a phone in sunlight, learning English, or returning to a long task. The features designed for neurodivergent users improve baseline usability for everyone.
Where this fits in WCAG
WCAG covers many of the relevant criteria: 1.4.8 Visual Presentation, 2.2.1 Timing Adjustable, 2.3.3 Animation from Interactions, 3.1.5 Reading Level, 3.2.3 Consistent Navigation. Several gaps (anxiety, focus, sensory load) are addressed at AAA or in complementary standards.