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Accessibility: Headings

Headings are not just a design element — they are essential for accessibility, usability, and search optimization.

Last updated: August 2025

Why Headings Matter

Headings on a webpage play a vital role in organizing content and making it easier for all users, including those with disabilities, to navigate and understand the information presented.

In Streamline websites:

  • H1 is automatically built into the site template.

  • H2 is reserved for the page title.

  • This means your content should begin with Heading 3 (H3) and then move in descending order (H4 → H5, etc.).

This order is not simply for appearance but is essential for clarity, accessibility, and structure.

⚠️ Accessibility Callout

👉 Headings must always be used in order (H3 → H4 → H5).

  • Never skip levels (for example, don’t jump from H3 to H5).

  • Don’t use a heading just for style — headings are for structure, not decoration.

Breaking this order makes your content harder to navigate for screen readers and harms accessibility.

Heading

Key Benefits of Proper Heading Use

  1. Accessibility
    Headings provide a clear structural hierarchy that allows screen readers and other assistive technologies to interpret and convey the page’s structure to visually impaired users. This ensures that everyone, regardless of ability, can access and navigate your website effectively.
  2. Usability

    Clear and consistent headings help all users quickly identify sections of a page and find the information they need more efficiently. Good headings improve the overall user experience and reduce frustration.

  3. Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
    Search engines also rely on headings to understand your content’s hierarchy and relevance. Well-structured headings can improve your website’s visibility in search results, making it easier for people to discover your site.

Best Practices for Headings

  • Always use headings in descending order without skipping levels.

  • Avoid using headings just to change the style of text — headings are for structure, not design.

  • Keep headings short, descriptive, and clear.

  • Do not use ALL CAPS for headings, as this reduces readability and can cause accessibility issues.

  • Combine headings with other accessible formatting practices for a consistent user experience.

Learn More

For more details on text formatting, styles, and accessibility guidelines, see our guide:
👉 Text Editing – Styles, Formatting and More