Why should visual formatting alone not be relied upon to communicate meaning?

Relying solely on visual formatting to communicate meaning can be misleading, as it does not account for accessibility needs. Visual formats, such as color, size, or shape, might be interpreted differently by users, particularly by those with visual impairments or cognitive disabilities. They may not be able to perceive visual cues or may struggle to interpret them, leading to miscommunication or loss of information.

In contrast, using descriptive words provides clear and explicit meaning that can be universally understood regardless of an individual's ability to perceive visual elements. Words can convey information that might not be immediately obvious through visual formats alone, ensuring that all users have equitable access to the content. This underscores the importance of providing information in multiple modes, rather than relying solely on visual formatting, which is essential for creating accessible documents.