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Re: Pdf heading levels

for

From: Steve Green
Date: Dec 5, 2017 10:39AM

Whilst I would report this as a technical non-compliance, I would not be at all concerned if it was not fixed. It's an issue that comes up a lot and there is often no right answer.

In all the user testing I have done I have never seen anyone have a problem with minor non-compliances in the nesting of headings like this. Consistency in the use of headings is much more important.

As you have said, you could pass the accessibility test by removing the H4 heading but that would not benefit anyone. My experience is that few screen reader users are capable of maintaining a mental model to the level of accuracy that they would notice incorrect nesting, but they do have problems if headings are not applied where they should be.

Steve Green
Managing Director
Test Partners Ltd