Which approach meets WCAG guidelines for color contrast on text against background?

• A. Rely on color alone to convey information.
• B. Ensure text and background are identical in color for accessibility.
• C. Use a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text; test with contrast-check tools.
• D. Only use grayscale text on colored backgrounds.

Answer: (C)

Text legibility under WCAG depends on having enough contrast between the foreground text and its background. The standard sets clear numeric thresholds: normal text should have a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1, while large text can meet 3:1. Checking your colors with a contrast-checking tool helps ensure these ratios hold across devices and lighting conditions. This matters because readability shouldn’t rely on color alone, which can be hard to detect for people with color vision deficiencies. Practices like making text the same color as the background or using grayscale text on colored backgrounds reduce contrast and accessibility. By applying the specified contrast ratios and verifying with a tool, you align with WCAG guidelines and keep text readable for a broad audience.