In the world of web accessibility, it’s the little things that make a big difference. And when it comes to lists, one of the most important little things is to make sure that your list items are contained in list elements. A list item is an HTML element that is used to create an item in a list. It’s represented by the <li> tag. This guide will explore the importance of containing your list items in list elements and how to fix it.

Think of your website as a grocery list. You want to make sure that all the items on your list are organized and easy to read. The same is true for your website. By containing your list items in list elements, you can create a more accessible and user-friendly experience for everyone. For a deeper dive into the world of accessibility, see our article on accessibility.

An illustration of a list with all of its items contained within the list, symbolizing the importance of containing list items in list elements.

Your Guide to a More Accessible and User-Friendly Website

Fixing list items that are not contained in list elements is a simple but important task. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Identify Your List Items That Are Not Contained in List Elements: Use an accessibility testing tool like Creeper to crawl your site and identify any list items that are not contained in list elements.
  2. Wrap Your List Items in a List Element: The best way to fix this issue is to simply wrap your list items in a <ul> or <ol> element.

The SEO Power of an Accessible Website

An accessible website is a more successful website. By making your website more accessible, you can improve your user experience, reach a wider audience, and even improve your SEO. For more on the importance of a well-structured website, check out this guide to web accessibility from WebAIM.

Don’t let your lists be a confusing and frustrating experience for your users. By taking the time to contain your list items in list elements, you can build a more accessible and successful online presence. For more on how to create a winning on-page strategy, see our article on on-page SEO.

An illustration of a checklist, symbolizing the importance of making sure your list items are contained in list elements.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a list item?

A list item is an HTML element that is used to create an item in a list. It’s represented by the <li> tag.

Why is it important for my list items to be contained in list elements?

It’s important for your list items to be contained in list elements so that screen readers can announce the correct information to the user. This is crucial for users who are blind or have low vision.

How do I contain my list items in list elements?

You can contain your list items in list elements by simply wrapping them in a <ul> or <ol> element.

Ready to make your lists more accessible? Start your Creeper audit today and see how you can improve your use of lists.