Headings and Labels (2.4.6 – Level AA)

Headings and labels describe topic or purpose.

Introduction

A webpage can be broken up with headings where content changes topic, introduces a sub-topic or changes purpose. Where headings are used, they must be descriptive.

Users with slow reading ability or short-term memory issues benefit from headings for sections of content to make it clear what the section contains. People who use screen readers may also use headings to navigate to sections.

As well as headings, descriptive labels on form control help users know how to complete the form fields.

How to Pass ‘Headings and Labels’

• Use descriptive headings and subheadings in content where appropriate (a change in topic or purpose)
  
• Use descriptive labels on controls and input fields

‘Headings and Labels’ Tips

A single letter of the alphabet can be a good heading (for example, in an alphabetical index).

If you regularly produce similar content, keep headings consistent (for example, a website about film reviews might have ‘Plot’, ‘Characters’ and ‘Verdict’ on each individual page).

Make sure headings can be programmatically determined as required by Info and Relationships.

See Also

• Info and Relationships
• Meaningful Sequence
• Labels or Instructions
• Understanding Success Criterion 2.4.6 (W3C)