What should be avoided when choosing fonts for accessibility purposes?

When selecting fonts with accessibility in mind, it's essential to prioritize clarity and readability. Custom fonts and fancy symbols can create significant challenges for individuals with visual impairments or cognitive disabilities. These types of fonts often lack the simplicity and uniformity necessary for easy reading. They may also introduce decorative elements that can distract from the message or make it difficult for screen readers to interpret the text properly.

Standard fonts, like Arial and Times New Roman, are widely recognized for their legibility and consistency, making them preferable choices in accessible documents. High contrast colors enhance readability, particularly for those with visual impairments. Similarly, bold and italic styles can be beneficial when used sparingly, as they can help to emphasize key points without compromising overall readability. Therefore, avoiding custom fonts that complicate comprehension is crucial to fostering an accessible document environment.