Writing Accessible Treegrid Descriptions
Writing Accessible Treegrid Descriptions records a distinct W3C-supported interface-content task while keeping implementation mechanics outside the writing guidance.
Use a brief description when a treegrid needs context beyond its label, such as what the hierarchy contains or how the data is organized.
Key details
Important caveats
Scope Boundary
This page covers optional treegrid description content; treegrid naming, row/cell labels, and interaction behavior remain separate tasks.
Further guidance
Content
Write the description to add context that the treegrid name alone does not convey, while keeping the label itself concise.
Practical Application
Add a brief treegrid description only when the label does not convey important context, such as how rows are nested or what the hierarchy represents; keep it additive rather than repetitive.
Purpose
Clear wording helps assistive-technology users understand the component or content in context without relying on implementation details.
Reader Check
Does the description explain something useful that the concise treegrid label cannot?
Worked Example
Example: A treegrid labeled “Department budget” could add the description “Rows are grouped by division and team” when that organization is important to understanding the data.
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.
- Treegrid Pattern — WAI-ARIA Authoring Practices Guide (opens in a new tab)World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) · W3C APG guidance for naming treegrid widgets and associating an optional caption or description.