Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG)

WCAG 2.2 was published in October 2023!

For UX, Product, and Front-end developers, here's a quick general guide to Accessibility (A11Y) that can simplify your work and improve user experiences. Even if no one explicitly requests it, following these recommendations can save you time in the long run.

Accessibility is guided by WCAG, a W3C Recommendation that explains how to make digital content more user-friendly for people with disabilities. It categorizes guidelines into three compliance levels: A (must support), AA (should support), and AAA (may support).

Consider these key domains when addressing A11Y:

• Vision - a person may be blind, color blind, or have a vision challenge that makes focusing difficult,
• Hearing - a person may be deaf, have partial hearing loss, or they may have difficulty hearing sounds within a certain range,
• Physical and motor skills - a person with reduced mobility may have difficulty holding a device or tapping the interface,
• Learning, and literacy - a person may have difficulty remembering a sequence of steps or they may find an overly complex user interface too hard to process and manage

Let's delve into some of the areas that every modern website should support:

Non-text Content - A

When it comes to web accessibility, it's essential to consider the diverse needs of your audience. Some users may disable images to save bandwidth, or they might have slow internet connections. To cater to their needs, it's crucial to provide true alternatives to visual content.

What to Expect:

1. Image Descriptions: Include descriptive text for all your images. This allows users who can't see the images to understand their content.
2. Audio and Video Descriptions: When using audio and video, provide a brief and informative description of the topic. This helps users comprehend the media's content.
3. Control Names: Assign clear names to your controls, such as 'Search' or 'Submit.' This aids users in understanding their functions.

What to Avoid:

While most images should have alt text, there are some exceptions. Images like spacers, icons, purely decorative elements, tests, and CAPTCHA images usually don't require alt text. Keep these guidelines in mind to enhance web accessibility for all.

While Accessibility best practices require, and assistive technologies expect, substantive graphical images to be authored with text equivalents, alternative text in CAPTCHA images would clearly be self-defeating. CAPTCHAs are, consequently, allowed under the W3C's Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) provided that "text alternatives that identify and describe the purpose of the non-text content are provided, and alternative forms of CAPTCHA using output modes for different types of sensory perception are provided to accommodate different disabilities." It is important to understand the limitation of the WCAG CAPTCHA exemption. It applies only to the content of the CAPTCHA. WCAG still requires that alternative text identify the graphical object as a CAPTCHA. Conformance with all other WCAG guidelines also remains critical for web accessibility.

Info and Relationships - A

A well-structured web page benefits all users, making information easy to find and understand. While elements like headings, bullet points, bolding, and italics might seem commonplace, they play a vital role in ensuring web accessibility. For users with disabilities, these elements can be the difference between a comprehensible website and a frustrating experience.

What to Expect:

To meet the demands of creating a well-structured web page, consider the following:

1. Consistent Use of Subheadings: Break up your content with subheadings for different sections. This helps users navigate and comprehend the content.
2. Proper HTML Header Tags: Use HTML header tags to mark your headings correctly. These tags provide structure and hierarchy to your content.
3. Appropriate Use of Structural Elements: Ensure that you're using the right HTML elements for all structural components on your page. This aids in maintaining a logical structure.
4. Valid HTML Throughout: Maintain valid HTML coding in all parts of your website, as it contributes to a seamless user experience.
5. Clear Labels on Forms: Provide clear and descriptive labels for form elements to assist users in form completion.

Meaningful Sequence - A

The meaningful presentation of content is pivotal for all users, especially those with disabilities. The order in which we present content significantly influences its comprehension. Just as English readers follow a left-to-right and top-to-bottom reading pattern, we must structure our websites in a way that respects this order. This is particularly important for users who rely on assistive technology like screen readers.

What to Expect:

To ensure a meaningful sequence of content, keep these aspects in mind:

1. Maintain a Logical Order: Organize your content in a sequence that is logical and intuitive for users to follow.
2. Separate Navigation: Clearly distinguish navigation menus from content to prevent confusion.
3. Preserve Content Meaning: When presenting content, maintain its inherent meaning. This benefits all users and enhances accessibility.
4. Structural Elements: Use paragraphs, headings, and lists in a consistent and meaningful manner.
5. Check Without CSS: Disable the site's Cascading Style Sheet (CSS) to confirm that your web page retains its intended order.
6. Heading Hierarchy: Properly use HTML headings (H1 to H6) to convey the importance of each section. While it's best to have a single H1 for the page title, don't feel obliged to use each level sequentially. Feel free to skip levels when it suits your content.
7. RTL Support: Consider using logical CSS properties (e.g., margin-inline-start) for right-to-left (RTL) support. This simplifies future localization and accommodates text positioning in various contexts, like CSS grid layouts and flexbox.

Sensory Characteristics - A

The term "sensory characteristics" may sound complex, but it's not as daunting as it seems. In web accessibility, sensory characteristics refer to attributes like shape, sound, position, and size on a website.

What to Expect:

When addressing sensory characteristics, consider these practical guidelines:

1. Multi-Sensory Instructions: Provide instructions that appeal to multiple senses. Relying solely on a single sense, such as sound or sight, can be limiting for users. Using a combination of sensory cues ensures a more inclusive experience.
2. Avoid Sound-Dependent Instructions: It's advisable to steer clear of instructions that hinge on sound. Unexpected sounds on a website can be disorienting and confusing for users. They might struggle to interpret the meaning behind these sounds, leading to a less pleasant browsing experience.

Use Of Color - A

Color is a vital element of web design, but it's crucial to use it thoughtfully for accessibility. Did you know that approximately 1 in 12 men has some degree of color blindness? That's around 8% of male users who may face challenges if colors are not used appropriately on your website.

What to Keep in Mind:

When it comes to using color in web design, common-sense principles are your best guide:

1. Avoid Relying Solely on Color: Instructions and critical information should not depend solely on colors. Some users may have difficulty distinguishing between certain colors, so providing alternative cues is essential.
2. Color Independence for Charts and Graphs: Charts and graphs should not rely exclusively on color to convey information. It's essential to include other distinguishing features like labels and patterns, ensuring that all users can understand the content.
3. Black and White Test: Periodically, it's a good practice to print samples from your website in black and white. This helps identify any instructions or information that may become unclear or indistinguishable without color. Make necessary adjustments to enhance clarity.
4. Provide Additional Identifiers: When giving instructions, avoid statements like "Click the green button" or "Required fields are in red." Not all users can perceive these colors. Include supplementary identifiers to make your content accessible to everyone.

Audio Control - A

Automatic sounds on a website can be a distracting and unwanted experience for our users. Some users may struggle with focus or have sensory sensitivities, making unexpected sounds a potential nuisance.

How to Address this Issue:

To create a user-friendly web environment, it's best to avoid auto-playing sounds. Here's what you can do:

1. Say No to Auto-Play: Automatic sounds should be turned off by default. Users shouldn't have to search for audio controls on your website to enjoy a peaceful browsing experience.
2. Short Audio Consideration: Even sounds that play for less than three seconds can be disruptive to users, especially those who may find it challenging to maintain focus. It's a good practice to minimize or eliminate these brief audio interruptions.

The Importance of Keyboard Accessibility

Keyboard accessibility is a fundamental aspect of creating an inclusive online experience. It's crucial because our users have varying motor skills, and providing keyboard-friendly navigation is essential. This isn't just about catering to a specific group; it benefits everyone who visits your website, including elderly users.

Why Keyboard Accessibility Matters:

1. Motor Challenges: Some users may have dexterity or sensory issues, making it challenging to use a small touchscreen keyboard. Offering keyboard input improves accuracy and efficiency, especially for tasks like filling out forms.
2. Navigational Preferences: Keyboard shortcuts, especially on Windows, are preferred by many users over complex menus. In these cases, using a mobile wireless keyboard is a more accessible option than relying solely on an onscreen keyboard.
3. Alternative Feedback: For individuals who are deaf-blind or have sensory limitations, mobile touchscreens that provide only audio feedback can be limiting. Offering keyboard input, such as braille or QWERTY keyboards, provides tactile feedback and a familiar layout.
4. Versatility: Not all individuals who are blind use braille displays, and these displays can be unreliable on mobile devices. In some cases, an external keyboard is a more effective choice for screen reader navigation.

No Keyboard Trap - A

When it comes to website accessibility, ensuring that all users, including those with varying degrees of motor skills, can navigate using only a keyboard is paramount. We must eliminate the possibility of keyboard-only users getting stuck at any point in their web journey. It's a fundamental aspect of creating an inclusive digital space.

Expectations for Keyboard Accessibility:

1. Full Navigation Control: Test your website to ensure that all parts are not only reachable but also navigable by keyboard alone. This includes using standard controls like the Tab and arrow keys, which many users are familiar with.
2. Mouse-Free Experience: Unplug the mouse and confirm that your website remains fully functional through keyboard interaction. It's vital to avoid non-standard navigation methods with explanatory text, as these can complicate the user experience.
3. Third-Party Considerations: Be cautious of third-party advertisements and widgets. These elements can often lack accessibility features, potentially hindering the overall usability of your site.

Timing Adjustable - A

When dealing with time-controlled content on your website, it's crucial to consider the needs of all users, including those who require more time to access and comprehend information. Time restrictions can inadvertently exclude individuals who may benefit from additional time, impacting their overall experience.

Expectations for Time-Controlled Content:

1. Disabling Time Limits: If your website employs time limits, provide users with the option to disable these limits before they come into effect. A "still there" page, appearing before time-controlled content, can display a message instructing users on how to proceed.
2. Adjustable Time Limits: Allow users to customize time limits within a reasonable range. This customization should extend to at least ten times the default setting, offering flexibility to accommodate different needs.
3. Extending Time Period: Users should be able to extend time limits, ideally at least twenty seconds before they expire. This extension should be a straightforward action, such as clicking a button, and available for use multiple times.
4. Pause and Delay: If your website features moving or animated text or automatic updates (e.g., displaying the latest scores), provide users with the ability to pause or delay these elements. The delay should offer a range of at least ten times the default setting.

Pause, Stop, Hide - A

We've all encountered websites that bombard us with distracting moving, blinking, or scrolling content. This can disrupt our focus and lead to frustration. However, there are steps websites can take to provide a more user-friendly experience.

What to Do for Controlled Content Movement:

1. Pause, Stop, or Hide Options: Websites featuring moving, blinking, or scrolling content should provide users with the ability to pause, stop, or hide these elements. This empowers users to regain control over their browsing experience.
2. Auto-Update Control: Content that automatically refreshes or updates should also offer the same control options. This prevents unexpected disruptions and allows users to manage their interactions with the site.
3. Frequency Control: Consider giving users the option to control the frequency of movement or updates. This feature can be highly beneficial, as it caters to individual preferences and needs.

Exceptions to the Rules:

While these guidelines are crucial for a smoother user experience, there are exceptions to consider:

• User Interaction: If the moving content requires user interaction to start, it may be exempt from the control requirements. This acknowledges that users are actively engaged with the content.
• Brief Duration: Moving, scrolling, or blinking content that lasts for less than five seconds might not require user controls. Short, non-disruptive animations can be informative or serve as loading indicators without causing significant distraction.
• Loading Indicators: Movement that functions as a loading indicator, preventing the perception that the website is frozen, may be exempt from certain control requirements. However, this should be used judiciously and serve a clear purpose.

Three Flashes or Below Threshold - A

When designing a website, it's crucial to prioritize the safety and well-being of all users. Flashing content can pose serious health risks to some individuals. To ensure a secure and inclusive online environment, it's important to adhere to specific guidelines:

1. Limit Flashing Rate: Avoid including anything on your website that flashes more than three times per second. This threshold helps reduce the risk of triggering adverse reactions in users who are sensitive to flashing content.
2. Distinguish Blinking from Flashing: It's important to differentiate between blinking and flashing. Blinking typically refers to intermittent, subtle changes, while flashing involves more rapid and intense changes in brightness. Prioritize reducing or eliminating flashing elements in your website's design.

Bypass Blocks - A

Improving website accessibility includes making it easier for all users to navigate your content. To assist individuals with screen readers and ensure a smoother experience, consider implementing a "Skip to Content" link or button on all pages of your website. Here's what you can do:

1. Include a Skip Link: Add a "Skip to Content" link or button prominently in your website's header or at the beginning of each page. This link should be visible (on focus at least), making it easy for users to find.
2. Functionality: When activated, the "Skip to Content" link should move users from the top of the page (typically above the header) down to the beginning of the main content. This enables users with screen readers to bypass repetitive content and immediately access the valuable information on your website.

Page Titled - A

Web page titles are a crucial component of your website's usability and accessibility. They provide users with essential information about where they are on your site and what the page's purpose is. Here are some tips to ensure your web page titles are both informative and user-friendly:

1. Unique and Descriptive Titles: Assign a unique and descriptive title to each page on your website. This title should clearly convey the page's content and purpose.
2. Formatting: Consider using a consistent format for writing page titles, such as 'Page Name - Page Description - Website Name.' This format provides users with a structured and easy-to-understand title. For example, 'Programs - My Wellness Programs - Virgin Pulse.'
3. Top Heading Consistency: In many cases, it's a good practice to use the page title or a variation of it as the top heading on the page. This ensures that the title is immediately visible and reinforces the content's relevance.
4. Review and Test: Maintain a spreadsheet of all your page titles and review them periodically. Check if they make sense out of context, as this is crucial for overall website usability. Users should be able to understand the page's purpose just by reading the title.

Focus Order - A

Making your website easily navigable for all users, including those who rely on keyboard navigation, is essential for accessibility. The 'focus order' of your website, which determines the sequence in which users access elements, should be well-structured and intuitive. Here's how to ensure a logical focus order on your website:

1. HTML Standards: A well-made HTML website often naturally complies with the guidelines for focus order. HTML is designed to provide a logical order for content and navigation.
2. Keyboard Testing: To ensure your website's focus order is sensible, unplug your mouse and navigate through your site using the 'Tab' key. Pay close attention to whether you can access every part of your website, including search boxes and forms.
3. Sensible Focus Order: Verify that the focus order follows a logical sequence. Typically, it should start with essential elements like the header, move to the main menu, and then proceed to the page content. This order aligns with how users naturally explore a webpage.

Link Purpose - A

To ensure that your website is accessible to all users, especially those with assistive technologies like screen readers, it's crucial to make your links clear and easy to understand. Users with disabilities often rely on hearing links read aloud or viewing highly magnified text, where link context becomes crucial. Here's how you can enhance link clarity:

1. Clear Link Text: Make sure that the purpose of each link is evident from the link text itself. For instance, use descriptive link text like 'Formula 1 official website' to clearly indicate where the link leads.
2. Contextual Clarity: If the link's purpose isn't immediately clear from the link text alone, ensure that the surrounding content, such as the same sentence, paragraph, or cell in a table, provides context. For example, 'McLaren announce first-of-its-kind recycled carbon fibre trial for United States GP' can help users understand the link's destination.
3. Image Alt Text: If the link is represented by an image, the alt text of that image should provide a clear description of the link's purpose. For instance, "McLaren have announced that they will be trialling the use of cutting-edge recycled carbon fibre (rCF) on Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri’s cars at this year’s United States Grand Prix." helps users comprehend the link's intent.
4. Consistent Descriptions: When multiple links lead to the same destination, use the same description for those links. This consistency ensures that users can predict where each link will take them. However, if links lead to different places, their descriptions should be distinct.

Language of Page - A

Setting the HTML language for each webpage on your site is a simple yet effective way to improve accessibility, particularly for users who rely on assistive technology. The chosen language directly impacts how screen readers pronounce words, making it crucial for an inclusive online experience. Here's how to ensure your website is language-accessible:

1. Language Assignment for Each Page: It's essential to assign a language to each page of your website individually. This ensures that assistive technologies can accurately interpret and vocalize content for users.
2. Template Language Setting: To streamline the process and avoid repetitive work, set the language in your website's template. This way, you only need to configure it once, and it will be applied consistently across all pages.
3. Correct Language Assignment: If your website covers content in multiple languages, make sure that each page is assigned the appropriate language. Consistency is key to avoid confusion.
4. ISO Language Codes: Ensure that the HTML language codes you use match the ISO language codes standard. This standardization helps maintain clarity and compatibility.

On Focus - A

Ensuring consistent focus is essential for a positive user experience, especially when users interact with elements like forms on your website. When elements change upon receiving focus, it can be disorienting, particularly for users who navigate via keyboard. Here's how to maintain focus consistency for a more user-friendly website:

1. Prevent Automatic Changes: No element on your website should automatically change solely due to receiving focus. This applies to both behavioral and visual modifications.
2. User-Initiated Actions: Forms should not submit or perform any actions without explicit user interaction, such as clicking the 'Submit' button. This empowers users to control when actions occur.
3. No Auto-Focus Shifts: Ensure that focus doesn't automatically shift to another element without user input. Users should have full control over where their focus goes.
4. Avoid Unwanted Page Changes: Any action triggered by focus alone should not cause the entire page to change. Users should not be unexpectedly redirected to different content.

Acceptable: There are cases where elements can change focus without causing issues, provided the context remains consistent. For instance, dynamic menus that expand when users hover over an item are acceptable, as they don't alter the broader context. Similarly, hover status changes on links are generally well-tolerated.

Focus Not Obscured - AA and AAA - WCAG 2.2

Ensuring that the focus indicator is visible and not obscured by other elements is vital for web accessibility. The level of visibility required depends on the WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) level you aim to meet:

1. Level AAA Accessibility: To meet the highest level of accessibility (Level AAA), the entire focused component, such as a button or link, must be fully visible when it receives focus. It should not be hidden or covered by any other elements, including but not limited to sticky headers, temporary notifications, banners, or other overlapping content.
2. Level AA Accessibility: To meet the second-highest level of accessibility (Level AA), part of the focused component can be hidden, but not entirely. This means that while some portion of the button or link can be obscured by other elements, there should still be visible evidence that the component is in focus. The focused component should not be fully hidden or covered.

Focus Appearance - AAA - WCAG 2.2

In web accessibility, there is an additional guideline at the highest level of accessibility (Level AAA) that pertains to the appearance of the focus indicator. This guideline specifies the following criteria:

1. Focus Indicator Thickness: A focused item, such as a button or link, should have at least a 2-pixel (2px) thick perimeter when it receives focus. This thicker outline helps make the focus indicator more distinct and visible.
2. Color Contrast Ratio: There should be a minimum color contrast ratio of at least 3:1 between the text or content within the focused item and its background. This color contrast ensures that the focused element is easily discernible to users, including those with visual impairments.

On Input - A

Ensuring user control in form interactions is crucial for a positive and frustration-free experience on your website. Forms should not automatically change or submit data as users input information. Here's what you can do to maintain user control in form interactions:

1. No Auto-Submit: Forms should never auto-submit when all fields are filled. Users should have the opportunity to review and edit their input before choosing to submit.
2. Focus Retention: The focus, or the field where the user inputs data, should not automatically jump to the next field in the form after a field is completed. Users should control the navigation within the form.
3. No Auto-Action: Using controls, like checkboxes or radio buttons, should not automatically perform an action. For instance, selecting to subscribe to a newsletter in a checkbox should not automatically subscribe the user. They should have the option to click a Submit button to confirm their choice.

Acceptable: There are cases where elements can change based on user input, but this change should be communicated to the user before they input their data or make a selection. For example, websites that offer text size options in the header can change the size without a submit button, as long as it's clear from the preceding text what will happen when the user makes a choice.

Redundant Entry - WCAG 2.2

Efficiently managing redundant information in forms is crucial for providing a streamlined user experience. Users should not be burdened with redundant data entry. Here are some best practices and exceptions:

Best Practices:

1. Eliminate Redundancy: Forms should be designed to eliminate the need for users to input the same information multiple times. For instance, on a checkout page with both shipping and billing address sections, include an option like "Same as shipping info" that, when selected, automatically populates the billing address with the shipping information. This reduces the need for users to retype identical data.

Exceptions:

1. When Re-entering is Essential: In certain situations, it may be essential for users to re-enter information. For example, if the information provided previously is outdated or no longer valid, it's important to prompt users to provide the correct data.
2. Security Information: Redundancy may be necessary for security purposes. In cases where sensitive information is involved, such as password confirmation, it's essential to require users to enter the information again to ensure accuracy and security.

Error Identification - A

Error identification and guidance are essential elements in creating a smooth and frustration-free user experience on your website, especially in areas prone to mistakes like forms, checkouts, and questionnaires. Here's what you can do to provide timely and clear error identification and guidance:

1. Automatic Error Detection: Identify and explain any mistakes that can be detected automatically. Inform the user of errors as they occur.
2. Proximity of Error Explanation: Place error explanations close to the errors themselves. Clearly indicate what is wrong and provide guidance on how to correct it. Ensure that the error message is easily visible and legible.
3. Format Requirements: If a form requires input in a specific format, display and describe the required format to users. Make it clear what is expected.
4. Mandatory Fields: Highlight mandatory fields that are left empty, and provide a concise explanation of what information is required in these fields.
5. Form Forgiveness: Design forms to be forgiving, accepting variations in the preferred format. This can reduce user frustration and improve completion rates.
6. Minimal Information: Only request the information that is necessary. Avoid asking for excessive or unnecessary details. Be concise in your data collection.
7. Clear Instructions: Use clear and concise instructions and form field labels. Make sure users understand what is expected in each field.
8. Visual Highlighting: Highlight mistakes in forms using colors and symbols. These visual cues can quickly draw attention to errors.
9. Preserve User Data: Don't clear a form if a user makes a mistake. Save the entered information and allow the user to edit and continue without re-entering all data.
10. Offer Contact Details: Provide additional assistance by displaying your contact details on all pages, especially near forms. Users should know where to seek help or clarification if needed. WCAG 2.2 - All help items need to be in the same place on all pages throughout the site. The most common examples would be phone numbers or contact buttons. This makes it easier for users to find help, no matter what page of a site they’re on. It can be in different locations on mobile and desktop.

Parsing

Parsing is a crucial process for software like web browsers and assistive technologies, such as screen readers, to read and understand websites. To ensure that all users can access your website without parsing issues, follow these best practices related to your website's code:

1. Complete HTML Tags: Ensure that HTML elements have both complete start ("<") and end ("</") tags where necessary. This ensures that the structure of your web content is clear and can be properly interpreted. WCAG 2.2 no longer enforces this requirement.
2. Nesting HTML Elements: Properly nest HTML elements according to their intended structure. For example, list items should be nested within ordered or unordered lists. Correct nesting improves the organization of content and aids in understanding. WCAG 2.2 removes the strict requirement for correct nesting.
3. Unique IDs: Use unique IDs for HTML elements. This is especially important for navigation and interactive elements. Unique IDs help assistive technologies and scripts locate and interact with specific elements. WCAG 2.2 no longer makes this a strict requirement.

Dragging Movements - WCAG 2.2

Ensuring that drag functionality is accessible to all users, including those who may not be using a traditional mouse or keyboard, is essential for a user-friendly experience. Here's how to achieve accessibility for drag functionality:

Best Practices:

1. Alternative Input Methods: Implement alternative ways to move an item that don't rely solely on a mouse. This is particularly important for users who may have mobility impairments or who are using touchscreen devices without a physical keyboard.
2. Touchscreen Considerations: When designing alternative methods, take into account touchscreen devices. These devices often lack a traditional keyboard, so you should provide touch-based or gesture-based options for moving items.
3. Flow or Task Boards: If your website or application uses flow boards or task boards, similar to platforms like Github Projects, ensure that drag and drop actions can be achieved using alternative input methods, such as touch gestures or voice commands.
4. Keyboard Accessibility: While drag functionality should have separate alternative methods, keyboard accessibility should not be neglected. Some users with disabilities may rely on keyboard navigation, so it's essential to provide keyboard-based options as well.

Target Size - AA - WCAG 2.2

Ensuring that buttons and links on your website are of an adequate size is crucial for accessibility, especially for users with motor impairments or those using touch-based interfaces. Here are the guidelines to follow:

1. Size Requirement: Buttons or links should have a minimum interactive target area of 24px by 24px. This means that the clickable or tappable area should be at least this size to ensure ease of interaction.
2. Spacing: Visualize this size requirement by thinking of it as drawing a circle around the button or link. The circle's diameter should be 24px, and it should not overlap with another button. Sufficient spacing between interactive elements prevents accidental clicks and improves the overall user experience.

Exceptions:

These size requirements may not apply to certain elements or controls, such as:

• Inline text links: Links embedded within a block of text.
• User-agent controls (Chrome/Firefox/Edge): Elements like date pickers and select dropdowns, which are often controlled by the user's web browser.
• Essential items: Elements like map pins or legal documents, where a smaller size is necessary for functionality.

You might be aware of the previous target size requirements. WCAG 2.1 introduced a minimum target size of 44px by 44px for Level AAA accessibility. However, the new requirement specifies a minimum target size of 24px by 24px for Level AA accessibility, providing a more flexible standard to accommodate various design needs while maintaining accessibility.

Accessible Authentication - AA and AAA - WCAG 2.2

Web accessibility guidelines address authentication methods to ensure that users, including those with disabilities, can access online services without facing unnecessary barriers. Here are some key points related to authentication and cognitive function tests in web accessibility:

1. Memorization and Cognitive Tests: Level AA accessibility standards prohibit authentication methods that rely on tasks like memorizing a password, transcribing codes or words, or solving puzzles. These tasks can be challenging for users with cognitive disabilities or certain impairments.
2. Use of CAPTCHAs: Level AA allows the use of CAPTCHAs, but with specific conditions. CAPTCHAs should use common objects rather than relying on complex cognitive tests. This means that CAPTCHAs should involve tasks like identifying objects in images rather than solving puzzles.
3. Level AAA Restrictions: Level AAA, which represents the highest level of accessibility, does not allow the use of CAPTCHAs at all. This is because CAPTCHAs typically involve cognitive tasks that can be difficult for many users, including those with disabilities.
4. Testing Against Cognitive Function Test: To ensure compliance with these guidelines, you can assess your authentication method against a cognitive function test. Your authentication process should align with the following principles:Alternative: Provide an alternative authentication method that doesn't rely on cognitive tests. This ensures that users who find cognitive tasks challenging have another way to access your services.Mechanism: Implement a mechanism that assists users in completing the cognitive function test. This can include providing clear instructions or offering support during the process.Object Recognition: If your authentication process involves cognitive tasks, ensure that they focus on object recognition rather than complex puzzles. Object recognition tasks are more accessible.Personal Content: Avoid using cognitive tests that require users to identify non-text content they provided to the website, especially at Level AAA.