What is the best way to convey that your text has special meaning?

Utilizing semantic tags in addition to color and/or font is the best approach to convey that your text has special meaning because it enhances accessibility and ensures that the intended significance of the text is recognized by all users, including those using assistive technologies like screen readers.

Semantic HTML tags, such as <strong>, <em>, or <mark>, carry inherent meaning that informs browsers and assistive devices about the purpose of the text. For example, a screen reader would announce text within a <strong> tag as being emphasized, which is crucial for users who rely on audio output instead of visual cues.

While altering font size, color, or a combination of both can visually signify importance, these methods do not convey the meaning of the text at the markup level. If a user has color blindness or other visual impairments, they may miss important information purely conveyed through color or size changes. Therefore, combining semantic tags with visual styling ensures clarity and accessibility, maintaining the significance of the content for all users.