WCAG Guideline 3.3.2: Labels or Instructions Explained
Estimated read time: 5–6 minutes
Guideline 3: Understandable
The Understandable principle ensures that users can easily interact with and understand web content, especially when entering information.
Guideline 3.3: Input Assistance
Guideline 3.3 focuses on helping users avoid and correct mistakes when entering information.
What Is Guideline 3.3.2 Labels or Instructions?
"Labels or instructions are provided when content requires user input."
Guideline 3.3.2 requires that all form fields and inputs have clear labels or instructions to help users enter information correctly.
- Helps users understand what information is required
- Essential for users with cognitive, visual, or learning disabilities
- Applies to all forms, inputs, and user data entry
For more, see Harvard: Provide Accessible Labels and Instructions .
Why Does It Matter?
- All Users: Need clear guidance to avoid mistakes
- Screen Reader Users: Rely on labels and instructions to understand fields
- Accessibility: Reduces errors and improves success rates
For more, see W3C’s guidance on Labels or Instructions .
What Needs Labels or Instructions?
- All form fields and input elements
- Any user data entry that requires specific information
- Labels or instructions must be clear, specific, and visible
How to Meet Guideline 3.3.2
- Provide a visible label for every input field
- Add instructions where needed (e.g., format, required fields)
- Use
aria-labeloraria-labelledbyfor accessible labels - Test with screen readers and accessibility tools
For more, see the W3C's Labels or Instructions Techniques .
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Omitting labels or instructions for input fields
- Using placeholder text as the only label
- Not providing accessible labels for screen readers
Differences Between A, AA, and AAA for Guideline 3.3.2 in WCAG 2.2
- Level A: Requires labels or instructions for all user input fields.
- Level AA: No additional requirements for 3.3.2.
- Level AAA: No additional requirements for 3.3.2.
For more, see the W3C’s official documentation for 3.3.2 Labels or Instructions .
Quick Checklist
- Every input field has a visible label
- Instructions are provided where needed
- Accessible labels are used for screen readers
- Tested with screen readers and accessibility tools
Summary
Guideline 3.3.2 ensures that users can enter information correctly the first time. Clear labels and instructions are essential for accessible, user-friendly forms.
Clear guidance leads to confident users—make your forms easy to understand for everyone!