2.4.6 Headings and Labels (AA)

The intent of this Success Criterion is to help users understand what information is contained in Web pages and how that information is organized. When headings are clear and descriptive, users can find the information they seek more easily, and they can understand the relationships between different parts of the content more easily. Descriptive labels help users identify specific components within the content.

Note: this success criterion only relates to the quality/descriptiveness of the "text" used for these headings and labels. Testers only need to evaluate whether or not the text acting as a heading (generally styled visually to be larger or bolder than regular body text) and text that acts as a label (such as traditional labels for form controls, but also any other form of text that is used to somehow "denote" a section or component of the page) is sufficiently accurate and descriptive. The success criterion is not concerned with whether or not these headings and labels are marked up with the correct semantic elements - this aspect is covered in 1.3.1 Info and relationships (level A).

Note: of course, determining whether or not text is sufficiently "descriptive" is subjective. If in doubt, testers should consult with authors and/or product owners.

Note: this success criterion does not mandate that authors use headings or labels. The intent here is not to fail pages where the tester feels a heading or label should be added for clarity - it is purely about evaluating the headings and labels that are present. In the case of labels, whether or not a page lacks necessary labels is covered separately in success criterion 3.3.2 Labels or instructions (level A). If a page has no headings or labels (which would be highly unlikely), this criterion is marked as not applicable.