18F

18F - Content Highlighter Testing

Content Highlighter Testing is a fast usability method. Users highlight text, marking clear parts in one color and confusing parts in another. This exercise takes about an hour. It quickly reveals readability issues, jargon, and conceptual gaps. Highlighting patterns are immediately visible. Clusters of confusion point to systemic problems. Isolated marks suggest terminology issues. Teams analyze the results. Then, they simplify content, define terms, and explain concepts better. This works for any text: documentation, error messages, onboarding, marketing, and legal disclosures.

Duration
1 hour
Group Size
8-12
Category
18F
Difficulty
Easy
Understand which words and phrases work. Clarify how to improve content.
Content highlighter test results. Clear understanding of content attention. Optimized content hierarchy.
I once tested content for pra.digital.gov. Two attorneys reviewed the rewritten content at the same time. We discussed legal terms and greatly improved clarity. Consider legal reviews if your content has legal implications. Content highlighter testing generally doesn't require PRA approval, but double-check for your specific use case.

  1. Select content: Decide what to test.

  2. Select a tool: Choose your testing method (in-person, paper, or online).

  3. Define testing goals: Determine the qualities you want to test.

  4. Pick colors: Assign colors to represent different qualities.

  5. Write instructions: Prepare clear guidelines for participants.

  6. Start the test: Have users highlight the text according to the guidelines.

  7. Discuss: Ask users about their highlighting choices.

  8. Analyze results: Identify content improvement priorities. It's not always perfect. Expect some ambiguous results.

Unlock Step-by-Step Instructions

Create a free account to access step-by-step instructions, agendas, and resources for all activities.

For Facilitators

  • Review participant profiles and expectations
  • Prepare all materials and supplies
  • Test technology and room setup

For Participants

  • Complete pre-session survey
  • Review background materials
  • Prepare examples or case studies

Unlock Pre-Work Requirements

Create a free account to access step-by-step instructions, agendas, and resources for all activities.


  • Content samples

  • Highlighters (different colors)

  • Recording materials (optional)

  • Feedback forms (optional)

Unlock Materials Required

Create a free account to access step-by-step instructions, agendas, and resources for all activities.

Usability.gov - Content Testing
Federal guide to content usability testing.

Unlock Resources & Templates

Create a free account to access step-by-step instructions, agendas, and resources for all activities.

Discussion

0/2000
Loading comments...

Related Exercises

See all exercises

18F - KJ Method

1.5 hours

Participants list individual priorities on cards, then organize and prioritize them as a group through voting. This exercise helps find consensus, esp...

18f

18F - Archetypes

2 hours

Archetypes are user representations based on research. They synthesize qualitative data into actionable profiles. Unlike assumption-based personas, ar...

18f

18F - Comparative Analysis

3 hours

Comparative Analysis systematically reviews existing products, services, or experiences that address similar user needs. This exercise analyzes user e...

18f