Guides and Checklists

Step-by-step resources that help you improve accessibility, speed, readability, and metadata. Written for Canadian creators and small teams who want dependable pages without jargon.

guides and checklists displayed on laptop and phone screens

How to Use This Library

Start with the topics that match your current page goals. Each section highlights fast improvements that require little to no code. Focus on one area at a time, validate changes on a phone and desktop, and aim for consistent typography, spacing, and contrast. These guides are written to be calm and practical so you can make steady progress and keep your pages friendly to visitors and ad reviewers alike.

If you maintain several pages, pick a template, apply the checklist from top to bottom, and repeat. Keep the footer links to your policies visible, use descriptive headings, and avoid heavy scripts. Over time, this approach leads to a site that feels faster, reads more clearly, and is easier to maintain.

Core Topics

These core areas cover the essentials for a stable, readable, and respectful web experience. Apply them gradually and track improvements in how quickly pages load and how easily visitors find information.

Accessibility Basics

Use a single H1, logical heading order, and readable font sizes. Ensure focus indicators are visible and colour contrast meets WCAG AA. Add meaningful alt text for images.

  • Keyboard navigation flows in a sensible order
  • Links are descriptive and distinguishable
  • Form fields include labels and error messages

Performance Essentials

Compress images, lazy-load media, and avoid unused scripts. Prefer system fonts or efficient web fonts. Keep layout stable to reduce content shifts that distract readers.

  • Optimize hero images for typical mobile networks
  • Defer non-critical scripts when possible
  • Limit third-party widgets that block rendering

Readable Content

Write short paragraphs, use plain language, and set clear section headings. Favour active voice and descriptive link text. Keep a consistent tone across pages.

  • Use bulleted lists for multi-step instructions
  • Avoid vague phrases; be specific and direct
  • Explain why a step matters before how to do it

SEO & Metadata

Create unique titles and meta descriptions, use structured headings, and include alt text that describes purpose. Avoid keyword stuffing and keep URLs human readable.

  • Only one H1 per page, aligned with the main intent
  • Descriptive page titles within 50–60 characters
  • Meta descriptions around 150–160 characters

Applied Checklists

Use these concise checklists to guide edits on a single page or template. They help you keep quality consistent while avoiding unnecessary complexity.

Heading & Structure Audit

Confirm there is one H1, logical H2–H4 order, and that each section supports the main purpose. Ensure skip links and landmarks are present for faster navigation.

audit of headings and semantic structure on webpage

Image & Media Pass

Set width and height to avoid layout shifts, compress images, and write alt text that explains function. Defer offscreen assets and check mobile presentation.

photo optimization and alt text review for responsive media

Policy & Trust Review

Verify that Privacy, Terms, Cookie Policy, and Contact links are visible in the footer. Avoid sensitive claims and keep a consistent, neutral tone across pages.

policy links and trust markers review on website footer

Landing Page Consistency

When your ad or social post promises a specific topic, the landing page should match it clearly. Keep the headline, imagery, and first paragraph aligned with the visitor’s expectation. Do not use pop-ups that block reading, avoid countdowns, and provide straightforward navigation to supporting information.

Match Intent

State the topic directly in the H1, repeat key terms in the opening paragraph, and avoid unrelated offers. This helps users and ad reviewers confirm relevance immediately.

Keep Paths Clear

Provide simple navigation, visible policy links, and a calm layout. Avoid auto-playing media. Keep forms short and explain how information will be used in plain language.