#28 STOP SHOUTING AT YOUR READERS: Use Sentence Case for Better Accessibility
Mini-Series: Building an Accessible Website (Even If Tech Isn’t Your Thing)
Let’s talk casing—not the kind that holds swords or spells, but the way your letters are styled. More specifically: Sentence case vs. ALL CAPS and why using the friendlier option makes your site more accessible.
Because nothing says “gentle indie author with a tender fae book” like a giant, all-caps button yelling: “JOIN MY NEWSLETTER NOW.” (Yikes.)
What Is Sentence Case?
Accessibility Rule: Use sentence case or title case for headings, buttons, and other on-page text when possible.
Sentence case means capitalizing only the first word (and proper nouns), like this:
“Read a free sample”
It’s easier to read, especially for people with cognitive disabilities or screen readers.
Title case means capitalizing the first letter of each word except for minor words like articles, prepositions, and conjunctions. Like this:
“Read a Free Sample”
Why ALL CAPS Is a Problem
All caps text:
Is harder to read (takes ~13–20% longer)
Can feel aggressive (like your website is yelling)
Can confuse screen readers or make them read letter by letter
That “DOWNLOAD SAMPLE” button might look bold, but it could also be overwhelming—especially to someone dealing with screen fatigue, ADHD, or anxiety.
Want to Use All Caps Anyway?
You can—but do it thoughtfully and intentionally. To do so:
Make the font 1–4pts smaller (so it’s less scream-y)
Add extra spacing between letters (this improves legibility)
Reserve it for small, punchy labels—like “NEW!” or “SALE”
Where Sentence Case Matters Most
Buttons (e.g. “Preorder now”)
Form labels (e.g. “Enter your email address”)
Headings and subheadings (but it’s fine to use title case for these too)
Navigation and drop-down menus
Need to Do Next:
Check your site’s buttons and labels—are they in sentence case?
If using all caps, reduce size + increase spacing
Read through your site aloud—does it sound friendly and conversational?
Let’s Talk!
What kinds of font or buttons make you feel yelled at—or warmly invited in? Got a favorite “accidentally aggressive” button example? I’d love to see it.