WCAG 2.4.6 Headings and Labels

Write clear, descriptive headings for content and/or labels for form fields.

What to do:

  • Use concise, clear language for headings within a page (e.g. <h1>, <h2>) and form labels
  • A single word can be sufficient if it relays the necessary information

Plain English Explanation:

This success criterion isn’t requiring headings and labels, it’s merely saying that when you use them, write clearly and descriptively so a user knows what content follows or what form fields are asking for.

For example, an effective label for a form that is asking for a first name is “First name”.

As another example, the <h1> heading for an article might be “How To Make a Website Accessible” and an <h2> heading might be “Provide Content Alternatives”.

The key here is that the words are clear and descriptive so a user knows what content to expect or what input a form field is asking for.

Understanding 2.4.6