WCAG Introduction

WCAG Introduction Overview

This lesson explains the purpose of WCAG Introduction, where it fits in modern accessibility workflows, and how to apply it to create inclusive and usable web interfaces.

Basic Accessibility Example

<button type="button" aria-label="Open menu">
  Open
</button>

function runAccessibilityCheck() {
  console.log('Review focus order and labels');
}

runAccessibilityCheck();

Start with semantic HTML first, then add ARIA only where needed to improve assistive technology support.

When to Use WCAG Introduction

• Use it when building interfaces that must support keyboard and assistive technologies.
• Apply it early in development to avoid costly accessibility rewrites later.
• Validate behavior with manual testing and screen-reader checks.

Best Practices

• Prefer semantic HTML elements before custom ARIA patterns.
• Ensure focus visibility and logical tab navigation.
• Use clear labels, instructions, and accessible error messages.
• Check color contrast and reduced-motion preferences.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using ARIA to replace semantic elements instead of enhancing them.
• Removing focus outlines without adding visible alternatives.
• Relying only on color to communicate meaning.

Key Takeaways

• WCAG Introduction is easier to apply with practical testing and small reusable patterns.
• Accessibility improvements benefit all users, not only assistive technology users.
• Inclusive design improves usability, compliance, and long-term product quality.