WCAG 1.3.3: Sensory Characteristics

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OVERVIEW

Effort:

  • Complexity:Easy
  • Duration:Fast

Important for:

Content

What is it about?

If text explains where to find an element on a page (for example, a button) or certain content, this must not rely solely on sensory characteristics such as colors, shapes, or the position of the element. Not everyone can perceive sensory cues.

You also need to be careful with instructions like ‘left’ or ‘right’. Many people browse the web on a smartphone, and in a narrow layout there is only a single column.

Illustration comparing unclear and clear instructions. The first line, marked with an X, says: Click the yellow, round button at the bottom. The second line, marked with a checkmark, gives the clearer instruction: Click the yellow ‘Order now’ button. Below is the yellow Order now button.

How to

Depending on your situation, you can implement one of the following options to meet the criterion. More details can always be found in the linked WCAG techniques.

  • References to text can also be made through software. If a button is labeled Order now, write Click the Order now button and not Click the yellow round button at the bottom.

    Refer to elements by name or through other textual identification

    Refer to elements using the textual mention of their name or other textual methods that do not rely solely on sensory characteristics.

    Details such as position, color, or similar may still be included as additional information.

    Examples:

    • Click on the yellow “Order now” button at the bottom left.

    • Look at the list on the right, with the heading “Our Locations”.

    Technique(s):

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