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Headings and labels must be descriptive and clear.
Why it matters: Helps users understand the structure and content of the page.
Headings and labels describe topic or purpose.
What This Means: This success criterion requires that headings and labels must describe the topic or purpose of the content they identify. Headings should clearly indicate what section they introduce, and labels should clearly describe what form controls or interactive elements do.
Why It's Important: Screen reader users often navigate by headings to understand page structure and find content. If headings are generic or unclear, users cannot effectively navigate or understand the content. Labels help users understand what form fields require and what interactive elements do. Clear headings and labels benefit all users, especially those with cognitive disabilities.
Use descriptive headings that clearly indicate the content of each section (e.g., 'Contact Information' instead of 'Section 2'). Ensure form labels clearly describe what information is required (e.g., 'Email address' instead of 'Field 1'). Use proper heading hierarchy (h1, h2, h3) and ensure labels are associated with their form controls. Test by reading headings and labels out of context to verify they're clear.
This criterion ensures that all users can access and understand the content, improving their overall experience and ability to use the website effectively.
This criterion ensures that screen reader users can access and understand the content, improving their overall experience and ability to use the website effectively.
This criterion ensures that users with cognitive disabilities can access and understand the content, improving their overall experience and ability to use the website effectively.
Impact: When this criterion is properly implemented, it removes barriers for these user groups and creates a more inclusive web experience for everyone.
This success criterion benefits the following user groups:
Tip: Use this checklist during development and testing to ensure all requirements for 2.4.6 Headings and Labels are met. Check off items as you complete them.
Note: These are official W3C resources for 2.4.6. For the most up-to-date information and detailed technical guidance, always refer to the official W3C documentation.
Implementing 2.4.6 Headings and Labels correctly requires understanding your specific context. Code solutions vary significantly based on multiple factors:
HTML, React, Vue, Angular, PHP, Python, and other frameworks each have different patterns and best practices.
Server-side rendering, client-side rendering, static generation, and hybrid approaches require different solutions.
Your existing components, styling approach, and UI library influence how accessibility must be implemented.
Your specific user base, content type, and interaction patterns determine the most appropriate implementation.
We provide tailored implementation guidance by analyzing your specific technology stack, coding patterns, design system, and project requirements. Our team reviews your codebase and provides custom solutions that integrate seamlessly with your existing architecture.
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