2.4.6 Headings and Labels

Headings help users understand the structure of a page and navigate between sections. Labels on form fields tell users what information is expected. Both must be descriptive and accurate.

Note that this criterion does not require headings or labels to exist. It requires that where they do exist, they must be descriptive. 1.3.1 covers the structural requirement for headings.

Write headings that accurately summarise the section that follows. 'About' is vague; 'About Calling All Minds' is descriptive.

Form labels must name the field precisely. 'First name' is clearer than 'Name'. 'Email address' is clearer than 'Email'.

Avoid using the same heading text twice on a page for different sections unless context makes the difference clear.

• Section headings that say 'Introduction' or 'Section 1' without indicating what the section covers
• Form labels that use placeholder text only, with no visible label