How can I use HTML tags to improve web accessibility?
Jun 25, 2025 pm 06:07 PMThe core methods of using HTML tags to improve web accessibility include semanticizing HTML elements, adding alt text to images, correctly labeling form input, and creating meaningful link text. 1. Use semantic HTML elements (such as
Improving web accessibility with HTML tags is one of the most effective—and often overlooked—ways to make your website usable for everyone, including people with disabilities. You don't need fancy tools or extra plugins; just using the right HTML structure and semantics can go a long way.

Here's how to do it right:

Use Semantic HTML Elements
Semantic elements like <header></header>
, <nav></nav>
, <main></main>
, <article></article>
, and <footer></footer>
help screen readers and other assistive technologies understand the structure of your page.
- Why it matters: Screen reader users can navigate by sections, skipping straight to the main content or jumping between articles.
- What to do: Replace generic
<div> or <code><span></span>
tags with appropriate semantic tags where possible.- For example, use
<nav></nav>
for navigation menus instead of just wrapping links in a<div class="nav"> .<p> This doesn't change how things look visually, but it makes a big difference for accessibility tools. </p> <img src="/static/imghw/default1.png" data-src="https://img.php.cn/upload/article/000/000/000/175084603718159.jpeg" class="lazy" alt="How can I use HTML tags to improve web accessibility?"><hr> <h3 id="Add-Alt-Text-to-Images-Using-code-alt-code-Attributes"> Add Alt Text to Images Using <code>alt
AttributesImages should always have descriptive
alt
text so that screen readers can convey what the image shows.- Basic rule: If an image conveys information, describe it briefly in the
alt
attribute. - Exceptions: If the image is decorative (like background images or icons used for visual flair), use
alt=""
to tell screen readers to skip it. - Example:
<img src="/static/imghw/default1.png" data-src="chart.png" class="lazy" alt="Bar chart showing monthly sales growth from January to December">
Avoid vague phrases like “image123” or leaving
alt
out entirely—that leaves users guessing or missing important context.Label Form Inputs Properly
Forms are tricky for many users if they aren't clearly labeled. Use the
<label>
element paired with thefor
attribute matching the input'sid
.- How it works:
<label for="email">Email Address</label> <input type="email" id="email" name="email">
- Benefits: Screen readers will read the label when the input is focused, helping users know what to enter.
- Bonus tip: Use
placeholder
sparingly—it shouldn't replace a proper label since some users may not remember what the field was for once they start typing.
Also consider using
aria-describedby
for longer descriptions or validation hints.Make Links Descriptive and Meaningful
Avoid vague link texts like “click here” or “read more.” Instead, use clear, describe text that explains where the link goes.
- Bad example:
<a href="/contact">Click here</a> to get in touch.
- Better example:
<a href="/contact">Contact our support team</a>
Screen readers sometimes list all links on a page, so meaningful link text helps users decide where to go without reading surrounding context.
Using HTML properly isn't complicated, but it has a huge impact on accessibility. These practices are easy to adopt and often improve SEO and maintainability too. Basically, it comes down to writing clean, meaningful code that reflects the actual purpose of each element.
- Basic rule: If an image conveys information, describe it briefly in the
- For example, use
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?Youcannotnesttagsinsideanothertagbecauseit’sinvalidHTML;browsersautomaticallyclosethefirstbeforeopeningthenext,resultinginseparateparagraphs.?Instead,useinlineelementslike,,orforstylingwithinaparagraph,orblockcontainerslikeortogroupmultipleparagraph

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