Understanding SC 2.4.6 Headings and Labels

2.4.6 Headings and Labels: Headings and labels describe topic or purpose. (Level AA)

The intent of this success criteria is to provide descriptive headings & labels that are understood by all the users. Descriptive means clear, concise & easily understood content. Users with low vision, motor impaired & cognitive users will benefit most from this checkpoint.

Examples

Good example of Descriptive Heading

Introduction to DigitalaA11Y

Bad Example of Descriptivve Heading

Introduction

In the above examples the text “introduction to DigitalA11Y” is more descriptive & will be well understood by all the user groups. Providing just “Introduction” will not make sense if the user skips to the heading using a screen reader shortcut.

Good Example of Descriptive Label

First Name

Bad Example of Descriptive Label

L Name

In the above examples we can easily see that “first name” label is more descriptive & easily understood while “”last name” is labelled as “l name” which is not understood. “L name” can resemble anything which is the reason labels must be descriptive.

Points To Remember

• Headings must be clear, concise & descriptive
• Headings must follow a sequential order to avoid confusion.
• Ensure that headings are consistent throughout the site
• Ensure that labels are descriptive enough so that users can take necessary actions

References

Understanding Success Criterion 2.4.6