Level AAASince WCAG 2.0
3.1.4 Abbreviations
Guideline 3.1: Readable – Language is declared and text is understandable.
What does the rule require?
Abbreviations are expanded or explained.
How to get it right
Spell out the abbreviation at first use: “Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG)” – or use <abbr title="…">.
Who benefits most?
- People with cognitive disabilities
- Blind people
Official wording
This page explains the rule in simple words. Only the original W3C text is normative.
- “Understanding Abbreviations” at W3C (external site)
- Techniques in the WCAG Quick Reference (external site)