Inspiration
This project was inspired by my experience working with kids who have ADHD. I’ve seen how smart and capable they are, but how easily they get overwhelmed by long instructions, cluttered screens, and too much information at once. Something as simple as reading a school assignment online or filling out a form can turn into a frustrating experience. It’s not about intelligence, it’s about how information is presented. I realized that while we talk a lot about accessibility, we don’t talk enough about cognitive overload. Many websites are built assuming everyone processes information the same way, and that just isn’t true.
What it does
I created a tool that makes websites calmer and easier to understand. With one click, it simplifies text, removes distractions, and breaks tasks into clear, step-by-step instructions. Instead of adding more to the screen, it removes what isn’t necessary, helping users focus on what matters.
How I built it
I built the project as a browser extension that can change a webpage in real time. When activated, it removes distracting elements like ads and sidebars, simplifies dense paragraphs, and breaks instructions into clear steps. I focused on keeping the design minimal so it doesn’t add clutter. Instead of redesigning websites from scratch, the tool works on top of existing pages and adapts them to the user’s needs. I tested different layouts and simplification styles to make sure the experience felt calmer, not busier.
Challenges we ran into
The hardest part was making sure I didn’t accidentally add more clutter. My goal was always to simplify, not overwhelm. Another challenge was rewriting text without losing meaning, it took several tries to find the right balance.
What I learned
I learned that accessibility isn’t just about compliance — it’s about dignity and independence. Everyone deserves technology that works for them, not against them. I also learned that small design choices, like what to show and what to hide, can make a huge difference in how someone experiences a webpage.
What's next for Simplify
Next, I want to test the tool with real students, especially kids with ADHD and learning differences, to see what truly helps them. I also hope to add voice support and personalization features so users can choose their preferred reading level and focus mode. My long-term goal is to make this tool available to schools so more students can navigate the digital world with confidence and independence.
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