Level ASince WCAG 2.0

3.1.1 Language of Page

Guideline 3.1: Readable – Language is declared and text is understandable.

What does the rule require?

The main language of the page is set in code. Only then does a screen reader use the right pronunciation – otherwise English sounds as if read by a German voice.

How to get it right

Set the lang attribute on the html element: <html lang="en">.

Who benefits most?

Blind people
People with dyslexia

Official wording

This page explains the rule in simple words. Only the original W3C text is normative.

“Understanding Language of Page” at W3C (external site)
Techniques in the WCAG Quick Reference (external site)