4.2 Any instructions or placeholder text is accessible

Sometimes we add extra instructions or placeholder text to a field to give our users more information. Screen reader users should be able to benefit from the same information. The problem with placeholder text is that not all screen readers read it, as well as it disappears once you begin typing.

WCAG 3.3.2: Labels or Instructions Opens in a new window

Details

• When possible do not use placeholder text.
• All placeholder text should be included visually hidden in the label.

Examples

Pick-up date (mm/dd/yyyy)

Pick-up date mm/dd/yyyy

Tips

• The placeholder text may read twice with some screen readers. This is a necessary trade off to make sure all screen readers will read it.