Accessibility Checklist: Forms Labels and Instructions
Bobby Bailey
How to Ensure Form Labels and Instructions Are Clear
Clear labels and instructions help people fill out forms accurately, especially those using screen readers or assistive technologies. Use this checklist to ensure all form elements are properly labeled and easy to understand.
10-Point Accessible Forms Labels and Instructions Checklist
Number one: Every form field has a visible label
Use <label> elements instead of placeholder text alone. Labels should clearly describe what the field is for.
Number two: Labels are correctly associated with inputs
Use the for attribute in <label> to match the input’s id. Example: <label for="email">Email Address</label> <input id="email">.
Number three: Provide instructions before form fields
If extra guidance is needed, place it before the input field, not after. Avoid forcing people to click or hover to reveal instructions.
Number four: Mark required fields clearly
Use the required attribute or include "(Required)" in the label. Do not rely on color alone to indicate required fields.
Number five: Do not use placeholders as labels
Placeholders disappear when typing, making them unreliable. Use visible labels instead of relying on placeholder text.
Number six: Group related fields together
Use <fieldset> and <legend> for related inputs like address fields or multiple-choice questions. Example: Grouping first name and last name under a "Full Name" legend.
Number seven: Ensure field descriptions are screen reader accessible
Use aria-describedby to associate help text with an input field. Example: <input aria-describedby="password-help"> <span id="password-help">Use at least 8 characters.</span>.
Number eight: Avoid using all caps for labels
All-uppercase text is harder to read and can be mispronounced by screen readers. Use sentence case or title case instead.
Number nine: Labels and instructions have sufficient color contrast
Text should meet a 4.5:1 contrast ratio against the background. Ensure form labels and hints remain readable in high contrast mode.
Number ten: Test with assistive technologies
Use a screen reader to confirm that form labels and instructions are properly announced. Navigate using only a keyboard to ensure instructions are reachable.