Inappropriate Heading Hierarchy Check

Description

The “Inappropriate Heading Hierarchy Check” evaluates whether heading levels (<h1> to <h6>) follow a logical, hierarchical sequence.

Example outcome

I found 1 instance in which the hierarchical sequence of heading levels is violated.

Impact

• Visual Impairments: Screen reader users rely on heading levels to understand content hierarchy. Skipped levels make it harder to tell what is a sub-topic vs. a new section.
• Motor Impairments: Keyboard navigation by heading level becomes less meaningful when heading hierarchy is inconsistent.
• Cognitive Disabilities: Logical heading flow helps users understand and mentally organize the page. Skips can cause confusion or misinterpretation.
• Neurodivergent Disorders: Clear, predictable structure supports users with ADHD or autism by reducing cognitive overload and frustration.

Fixes

To address inappropriate headings hierarchy:

1. Locate all the headings that disrespect the hierarchical flow.
2. Rearrange their levels to ensure a logical sequence.

Resources

• WCAG 2.2: Understanding Success Criteria 1.3.1
• WCAG 2.2: Understanding Success Criteria 2.4.10
• WCAG 2.2 Techniques: Technique G141: Organizing a page using headings
• WebAIM: Semantic Structure: Regions, Headings, and Lists