Web users with limited literacy skills are more likely to use a search function that’s simple and user-friendly. Consider these best practices when adding a search function to your website:
- Make your search function easy to locate and use. Use a large text box with obvious buttons.31
- Use a “get started” or “go” button next to your search box. A clearly labeled button will signal to users that they need to enter a term(s) and then submit or “go.”
- Allow for common misspellings.54, 58 Spelling is difficult for many people,24, 26, 31 so make sure your search engine will still work if users make a spelling mistake. Help users search by providing spelling and autocomplete assistance.24, 26, 31