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Re: What are the semantics in html?

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From: Moore,Michael (Accessibility) (HHSC)
Date: Jul 9, 2020 8:40AM

Hi Vsevolod,

You asked what semantics are in HTML.

The simplest answer is that semantics tell you what something is.

HTML elements for paragraphs, links, headings, lists, list items, tables, data cells, header cells, different types of form fields and other objects all exist to provide user agents like browsers and screen readers with information that allows them to provide useful information about the structure and nature of the object. Browsers do this through the default visual display of the item and screen reading software conveys this information through sound or braille.

This information makes it easier for the user to navigate through the page, understand how different items are related, and how to interact with controls, links and form fields.

In cases where an object is created using elements that do not provide information about what it is. "Non-Semantic" elements, then the developer can provide that information through ARIA role attributes. Using elements that provide the meaning without the need for ARIA role attributes is preferred but some frameworks and code libraries don't properly use the markup. This does not make them inaccessible or non-compliant with WCAG but the additional role attributes need to be present and need to be correct.