Making an Accessible Table of Contents for Screen Readers

Designing a navigation index for all users is essential for ensuring that every visitor, including those who rely on screen readers, can navigate content efficiently and intuitively. A clearly organized table of contents not only improves usability for everyone but also adheres to global accessibility requirements.

To ensure its accessibility, start by employing correct HTML semantics. The table of contents needs to be contained in a nav container, which signals to screen readers that this section contains navigation links. Inside the nav element, use an unordered list ul to organize the links, as unordered lists are easily interpreted that screen readers can read out accurately. Each list item li should include one a element linking to the corresponding section on the page.

The href attribute of each link should reference an existing id on the destination heading, ensuring that the user is smoothly navigated to the right section.

The document’s heading hierarchy must be correctly arranged using heading levels h1 to h6. This order allows screen reader users to comprehend the content layout and navigate efficiently. Avoid skipping heading levels, such as jumping from h1 to h3, as this creates disorientation for users.

The link text must be meaningful and succinct. Never use non-descriptive terms like "click here" or "learn more", use specific headings like "Getting Started with Accessibility" or "Solving Frequent Problems". Screen readers will announce this text, so it should clearly describe the target section.

It is also necessary to add an aria-label or aria-labelledby on the nav element if multiple navigation areas exist. For example, if there are multiple navigation sections on the page, labeling the table of contents as "Page table of contents" helps users differentiate it from secondary menus.

Avoid using JavaScript to generate the table of contents dynamically unless no alternative exists, as this can introduce accessibility barriers if not coded with accessibility in mind. If dynamic generation is required, ensure the content is made audible through live regions or by managing keyboard focus accurately.

Testing with actual screen readers such as JAWS, NVDA, or VoiceOver is non-negotiable. Interact with the TOC via keyboard and assistive tech to confirm all links are properly voiced, that the layout is logical, and that tabbing moves predictably. Also, make sure keyboard navigation works properly, meaning users can navigate all items in order without gaps. The focus states must be clearly visible, ketik allowing users who use keyboard-only input to see where they are on the page.

Pay attention to where the TOC appears in the document. It must be placed near the beginning, preferably at the start of the content area, so screen reader users can find it quickly without having to listen to lengthy content sections first.

When the TOC can be hidden or shown with a button, make sure the button is properly labeled with ARIA attributes, such as aria-expanded and aria-controls, to communicate its current status and purpose.

Adhering to these guidelines, you create a table of contents that is not only visually helpful but also genuinely accessible, enabling everyone to navigate the document effortlessly.