Provide meaningful section headings to every section of a document
no. 139
Make sure every single section of a document starts with a meaningful section heading
Longer or more complex documents are often divided into sections, such as chapters, topics, clauses, and so on. These various sections can also be broken down into subsections and subtopics. All this structure is usually conveyed visually to users through design and text indentations, but when users cannot see the page layout, the information is easily lost and making sense of the overall structure becomes difficult. To alleviate this problem, it is often necessary to provide a heading structure that defines every single section of the content.
To do so, simply make sure every single section of a document starts with a meaningful heading that either properly describes the section, or the content that follows. Whenever the structure requires it – such as in legal documents – do not hesitate to use section headings to introduce content headings as well. Providing a well-defined heading structure that clearly indicates the organization of the content facilitates navigation and also provides mental handles that aid users in understanding the content itself.
User Story
As a user using assistive technology, I want every single section in a web page to start with a meaningful heading properly describing the content that follows, so that I can reliably understand the structure of the document and easily find the information I’m looking for.
Simple Code Example
<h1>AODA - PART III</h1> <h2>3.1 ACCESSIBILITY STANDARDS</h2> <h3>3.1.1 Establishment of Standards</h3> <h4>3.1.1.1 Accessibility standards established by regulation</h4> <h3>3.1.2 Standards Development Process</h3> <h4>3.1.2.1 Process for development of standards</h4>
Testing Methodology
Using the Web Developer Toolbar for Firefox, select the “View Document Outline” test under “Information” and check that each section of the page has its own heading that properly and meaningfully identifies it.
Specification Details
WCAG 2.0: Level AAA
Principle: Operable
Guideline: 2.4 Navigable
Success Criterion: 2.4.10 Section Headings
Related Technique: G141
Category: General