Scannable Paragraphs are one of the most common content types. Use them in cases where you have a lot of text & details to share. They are most often used on Topic Detail pages, but can be used on almost every template we have.

Large images

If you have a lot of images to use there are some better component options. You can even mix and match some of these with Scannable Paragraphs to build a page that's visual and also well organized.

• Featured Image/Video
• Row of Images
• Multicolumn Content

More or less columns

Scannable Paragraphs only allow for a header column and a body column. This is to keep our pages simple. Try the Multicolumn Content if you're looking for more complex or custom layouts.

Scannable Paragraphs are made up of two columns–a "heading" column on the left and a "body" column on the right. There are special rules about what type of content should go in each column.

General Do's & Don'ts

Do

• Use more than one Scannable Paragraph on your page. Try to use at least 2 at one time.
• Use images, bullets and subheadings in your right "body" column to break up your content.
• Follow best practices for using images.

Don't

• Don't add large images or detailed content in the left "heading" column. Keep your page neat by making this column as simple as possible.

Grouping Scannable Paragraphs & other blocks

In some cases you may have long-format content that requires several groups of blocks on a page. When this happens, you need to use a Group Heading to organize blocks into one group with an H2 heading.

Headings

Headings are important for visitors who use screen readers. Heading order organizes the content on the page and provides a "table of contents" for non-visual visitors. When you use a Scannable Paragraph, make sure the headings on the page are structured correctly. Think of headings as an outline of your content.

Learn more about headings and accessibility