Writing & StyleStyle guide

Writing Accessible Directory Labels

Writing Accessible Directory Labels records a distinct W3C-supported accessible-naming task and keeps implementation mechanics outside the writing guidance.

Quick answer

If a directory needs an accessible name, describe the directory’s purpose or contents concisely instead of repeating “directory.”

Key details

Core IssueW3C APG treats naming a directory role as discretionary and notes that a name can help communicate the directory’s purpose.
Registerweb accessibility and interface content

Important caveats

Scope Boundary

This page covers optional directory-name wording; it does not require every directory role to have a name.

Further guidance

Content

Use wording that helps distinguish what the directory contains or is for; omit a name when it would add no useful distinction.

Purpose

A concise purpose-oriented name can help users identify the directory when a label adds useful navigation context.

Sources and evidence

Sources are shown with the role they play in this guide. Historical or style-sensitive claims are kept within the evidence boundary described above.

  1. Providing Accessible Names and Descriptions — W3C WAI ARIA APG (opens in a new tab)W3C Web Accessibility Initiative · W3C WAI-ARIA Authoring Practices guidance for descriptive accessible names, visible labels, and button/control naming.

Explore the topic