What is a general guideline for document formatting regarding font styles?

Inaccessible documents can significantly hinder the reading experience for users, particularly those who rely on assistive technologies. A fundamental guideline in document formatting is to avoid excessive use of italics and underlining. This is because such styles can make text harder to read, especially for individuals with visual impairments or dyslexia. Overuse of these formatting techniques may cause confusion, as they can disrupt the visual flow and clarity of information.

Keeping the text clear and easy to read is crucial in accessible document design. By limiting these stylistic choices, you ensure that the content remains legible and comprehensible for all users, creating a more inclusive environment. Thus, prioritizing straightforward formatting choices directly enhances accessibility.

In contrast, other options, while they may have their own merits in design contexts, do not align with best practices for accessibility. For instance, decorative fonts may look appealing but can compromise readability. Similarly, preferences for serif fonts can vary across different demographics and not necessarily improve readability for everyone. Center aligning text can also disrupt the left-to-right reading flow, which can be particularly challenging for those using screen readers.