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Headings
Links
Tables
Images
Videos
Files
Headings
Problem
A lack of headings, or providing headings without information, makes navigating content difficult.
Solution
Using headings correctly allows screen reader users to navigate quickly through content, for example skipping to every section header (<h2>), removes the need to read through every piece of information line-by-line. The order of the headings (the heading level) defines the hierarchy of the content. For example:
- Heading 1 or H1 tag is a vitally important heading, probably a page title.
- Heading 2 or H2 is most likely a section heading, with smaller headings.
- Heading 3 (H3) and Heading 4 (H4) are subheadings of progressively less importance.
Watch the AUSLAN version of the Headings video on Panopto
Ways to create accessible headings
MinimumUse ordered headings to add structure
At minimum you need to include basic heading structures within your resources. For example, within Microsoft Word and CloudDeakin you can specify Heading Level 1 through to Heading Level 6 by selecting the relevant style.
MeaningfulProvide meaning and context to your headings
Provide meaningful headings that make sense to the user when read out of context and signpost the content to follow. For example: “Week 1 – An introduction to cell biology” provides more information than a heading that is just “Week 1”.
CONSISTENTApply headings consistently across resources
Structure your headings with a consistent logic and approach to style that is meaningful across all of your resources. Consistently applied and meaningful headings will make sense to a user even when read out of context.
If you need further guidance on how to create accessible headings visit:
Everyday Accessibility Basics (EAB)
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