Accuracy

Make sure that all the information presented is correct. Incorrect or outdated information should be updated immediately.

Include all Relevant Content

All content should be interesting and relevant to the target audience. Include all necessary information about a subject. If some important information is undetermined or unknown, state all known facts and provide a timeframe during which the other information will be added. Omit all non-relevant content.

Brevity

Be succinct. Do not include information that is unrelated to the page’s topic or unimportant details that may confuse the visitor.

Unique

Do not recreate content that already exists on another page; instead, link to the relevant page. This will help avoid conflicting and outdated information.

Spelling, Grammar, and Abbreviations

Grammar and spelling must be perfect. Use of abbreviations should follow the AP Stylebook.

Simple sentence structure

A needlessly complicated approach to composing text that includes unnecessary verbiage and sophisticated vocabulary generally results in an inferior amount of comprehension for the user. In other words, write simply.

Short Paragraphs

Smaller paragraphs are easier to skim than larger paragraphs. Separate long blocks of copy into smaller paragraphs, each describing one topic or idea. Several short paragraphs are preferable to one long one.

Lists

Lists are easier to skim and understand than paragraphs. Use them when describing a series or a list of steps to be taken.
Each block of content should be preceded by a descriptive heading. Headings should be used to give the copy structure and to help navigation.

Elementary

Middle

High

K-8

Other

San Diego Unified School District

Web Content Guidelines