WCAG Guideline 1.4.12: Text Spacing Explained
Estimated read time: 6–7 minutes
Guideline 1: Perceivable
The Perceivable principle ensures that all users can access and understand content, regardless of their sensory abilities. This includes making sure text remains readable when users adjust spacing.
Guideline 1.4: Distinguishable
Guideline 1.4 focuses on making content easier to see and hear. Text Spacing ensures users can apply their preferred spacing without losing content or functionality.
What Is Guideline 1.4.12 Text Spacing?
"No loss of content or functionality occurs by setting all of the following and by changing no other style property: line height (line spacing) to at least 1.5 times the font size; spacing following paragraphs to at least 2 times the font size; letter spacing (tracking) to at least 0.12 times the font size; word spacing to at least 0.16 times the font size."
Guideline 1.4.12 Text Spacing is a Level AA requirement in the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) .
- Users must be able to adjust line, paragraph, letter, and word spacing without breaking the layout.
- No loss of content or functionality when these spacing settings are applied.
- Supports users with dyslexia, low vision, and reading difficulties.
For more, see Harvard University: Technique – Text spacing .
Why Does It Matter?
- Readability: Custom spacing helps users with dyslexia and low vision.
- Inclusivity: Supports a wide range of reading preferences and needs.
- Legal Compliance: Text Spacing is a Level AA requirement in WCAG 2.2.
- Usability: Improves comfort and comprehension for all users.
What Needs to Support Text Spacing?
- Paragraphs and articles
- Forms and instructions
- Navigation menus
All must remain readable and functional with custom spacing.
How to Meet Guideline 1.4.12
- Use relative units (em, rem) for spacing
- Avoid fixed heights and overflow on containers
- Test with user stylesheets that apply the required spacing
- Ensure no content is cut off, overlaps, or becomes hidden
For more, see the W3C's Text Spacing Techniques .
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Fixed container heights that cut off text
- Content that overlaps or disappears with custom spacing
- Not testing with user stylesheets or browser extensions
Differences Between A, AA, and AAA for Guideline 1.4.12 in WCAG 2.2
- Level A: No specific requirement for text spacing.
- Level AA: Requires support for user-applied spacing settings without loss of content or functionality.
- Level AAA: No additional requirements for text spacing.
For more, see the W3C’s official documentation for 1.4.12 Text Spacing .
Quick Checklist
- No loss of content or functionality with custom spacing
- Supports line, paragraph, letter, and word spacing
- No fixed heights or overflow that hides text
- Tested with user stylesheets
Summary
Guideline 1.4.12 ensures your content remains readable and usable when users adjust spacing. Use flexible CSS and always test with user stylesheets.
Accessibility means everyone can read your content—no matter their spacing needs!