Writing & StyleStyle guide

Writing Accessible Tree Labels

Writing Accessible Tree Labels records a distinct W3C APG-supported wording task while keeping implementation mechanics outside the writing guidance.

Quick answer

Give a tree widget a concise accessible name that identifies the hierarchy or task the tree represents.

Key details

Core IssueW3C APG requires an accessible name for a tree widget so users can identify the hierarchy they are navigating.
Registerweb accessibility and interface content

Important caveats

Scope Boundary

This page covers the tree container name; tree-item labels, expansion state, selection, and keyboard navigation are separate concerns.

Further guidance

Content

Give the tree a concise label that identifies the hierarchy or task it represents, such as a site section, file collection, or navigation structure.

Purpose

A purpose-based tree name gives context to the nested tree items before users navigate through the hierarchy.

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. Tree View Pattern — WAI-ARIA Authoring Practices Guide (opens in a new tab)World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) · W3C APG guidance for accessible naming of tree widgets.

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