Accessibility Checklist for Modern Web Apps

Accessibility is easiest to improve when it is part of the default workflow instead of a late-stage cleanup. A small set of habits can remove most of the common barriers.

Start with Semantics

Use native HTML elements first. Buttons should be buttons, links should be links, and headings should follow a clear outline.

Check Keyboard Flow

Every interactive element should be reachable and usable with the keyboard alone.

• Tab through the page in a logical order
• Make sure focus is visible
• Avoid trapping focus in custom overlays

Write Useful Labels

Inputs, buttons, and icons need names that describe what they do. Placeholder text is not a label.

Test With Assistive Tech

Run quick spot checks with a screen reader or accessibility tree viewer. A few minutes of testing often reveals missing labels, confusing structure, or invalid roles.

Keep Contrast Strong

Text and UI controls should remain readable in all states, including hover, disabled, and focus.

Final Pass

If you only do one thing, verify that the page can be understood and operated without a mouse. That single check catches many issues early.