Using Structured Headings
What are structured headings?
Headings aren’t just a visual style choice — they organize and outline the content on a page for readers and the technology they use.
When you apply built-in heading styles, you create a clear hierarchy that acts like an outline for your webpage or document. This structure is recognized by web browsers, search engines, and assistive technology, ensuring that everyone can navigate the content more easily.
Simply changing fonts, font sizes, bolding, underlining, italics, or using all caps won’t achieve this. Those visual adjustments don’t produce the underlying code needed to signal structure to assistive devices and technology.
What is assistive technology?
Assistive technology includes software and hardware that help people with disabilities access and interact with digital content. Headings provide a structure for these devices which allows individuals to quickly browse content to determine its relevance to what they're searching for.
For example, a screen reader is software that converts text on a page into speech or Braille. This allows users to listen to or feel the information on the screen rather than relying on sight alone.
People who may use screen readers include:
- Individuals with vision-related disabilities (such as blindness or low vision)
- Individuals with neurological disabilities (such as epilepsy)
- Individuals with cognitive disabilities (such as dyslexia or ADHD)
- Individuals with temporary or permanent physical disabilities (such as a broken hand or ALS)
Why are headings important for accessibility?
Headings are essential for users who navigate by listening rather than looking. Many people using screen readers will ask the device to read all headings first, which gives them an idea of the content on the page and what to expect.
Once they hear the list of headings, they can jump directly to the section they need. Think of how often you may have skimmed an article without reading it in its entirety. Without properly structured headings, these users would have to listen to the entire page to find the information they’re looking for — adding unnecessary difficulty and frustration.
Heading quick tips
- Use built-in heading styles (H1, H2, H3…).
- Do not create headings with bold text or font size changes.
- Keep headings clear and descriptive.
- Maintain a logical hierarchy — don’t skip heading levels.
Are there other benefits to using headings?
Headings aren’t just helpful for people using assistive technology — they make pages easier for everyone to scan and understand quickly.
In addition, structured headings improve search engine optimization (SEO), making your pages more visible in Google search results to potential students and their families.
More info
- Learn how to write high-quality headings
- Watch a blind individual navigate his computer using a screen reader, JAWS