Lists: Organizing Content for Accessibility

Why Lists Matter

Lists are essential tools for organizing information in a way that is easy to read and understand. For users relying on screen readers, properly formatted lists provide clear structure and improve navigation through content. Accessible lists ensure that your information is presented in a logical, predictable and inclusive manner.

Using Lists to Support Accessibility

Accessible lists enhance readability and ensure that assistive technologies can convey information accurately. There are two primary types of lists:

  • Unordered Lists: Unordered lists use bullet points to present items without a specific order.
  • Ordered Lists: Ordered lists use numbers to present items in a sequence or rank, where the order matters.

Examples of Ordered & Unordered Lists

Unordered Lists

Program Highlights:

  • Engaging curriculum and personalized academic experience with small classes, supported by outstanding faculty mentorship.
  • 1:1 advising model and a cohort experience that fosters a strong community.
  • Dedicated Academic Coordinator monitors student progress and supports students beyond the fall semester.
  • Get connected: Join Elon’s robust clubs and organizations community, social activities and university athletics.
  • Live in East Neighborhood with other Elon and Elon Bridge students. Your roommate will also be in the program.

 

Ordered Lists

Steps for Applying for Financial Aid:

  1. For all types of aid, complete and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Elon’s FAFSA federal Title IV school code is 002927.
  2. Elon University requires the results of the CSS Profile to be considered for need-based aid that comes from the university.
  3. Notify Elon’s Office of Financial Aid of any scholarships, grants, loans or other assistance you will be receiving from any source other than Elon University. Such notification is required by federal regulation as well as institutional policy.

 

General Rules for Lists

  • Use the Correct List Type: Always use the correct list type to ensure assistive technologies recognize the list and convey the correct content structure.
    • Unordered lists: Use for items that don’t have a specific order.
    • Ordered lists: Use for sequential or ranked items.
  • Avoid Using Lists for Layout: Lists should only be used to group related items, not for creating layouts or visual spacing.
  • Provide Context: Introduce lists with a brief sentence or heading to give users an idea of what the list represents.
  • Limit List Length: Keep lists concise. Break long lists into smaller sections to improve readability and navigation.
  • Limit List Item Length: Keep the content for each list item (bullet or number) concise, and avoid entering entire (or multiple) paragraphs under each item. If you find yourself doing this, the content may be better structured using headings.
  • Nested Lists: Use nested lists sparingly and ensure they follow a logical structure.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Using Plain Text for Lists: Avoid creating lists using dashes or asterisks in plain text, as these are not recognized as true lists by assistive technologies.
  • Overusing Lists: Too many lists on a page can overwhelm users and dilute the emphasis of key points.
  • Improper Nesting: Avoid nesting lists too deeply, as this can be confusing for users relying on screen readers.
  • Mixing List Types Incorrectly: Do not combine ordered and unordered lists without a clear reason or proper structure.

Final Tips

  • Think About Purpose: Before creating a list, consider whether the information truly benefits from being presented as a list.
  • Check List Appearance: Ensure your lists display properly in the CMS and align with Elon University’s design guidelines.
  • Test with Screen Readers: Confirm that screen readers announce your lists and their hierarchy correctly.