What Is Semantic HTML?
Semantic HTML refers to the use of HTML elements that clearly describe their meaning and purpose—both to browsers and assistive technologies like screen readers. Unlike generic elements (like <div> or <span>), semantic elements carry inherent structure and improve both accessibility and maintainability.
Examples of Semantic HTML:
- <header>, <footer>, <nav>, <main>, <article>, <section>, <aside>
- <form>, <label>, <button>, <figure>, <time>
These elements help users and screen readers understand the role of each part of a web page.
Why Semantic HTML Matters for Accessibility
Semantic HTML is critical to web accessibility and is referenced directly in WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) under Success Criteria 1.3.1 (Info and Relationships) and 4.1.1 (Parsing). It ensures that assistive technologies can:
- Interpret page structure properly
- Announce elements with correct roles
- Enable keyboard navigation and screen reader orientation
Laws like the ADA (U.S.) and the BFSG (Germany) require that websites follow these standards to ensure digital inclusion and accessibility compliance.
Why <section> Is Better Than <div>
While <div> is a generic container with no inherent meaning, <section> conveys a distinct content block relevant to a document’s structure.
✔️ Use <section> when content has a heading and belongs to a logical grouping
❌ Avoid using <div> solely for layout when a semantic tag fits the purpose
This helps screen readers build a mental model of the page and benefits SEO by making content easier to crawl and index.
Semantic HTML vs ARIA Roles
- Semantic HTML should be your first choice because native elements come with built-in behavior and accessibility.
- ARIA (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) roles are useful only when semantic HTML isn't sufficient.
Example:
Instead of <div role="button">, use <button> — it supports focus, click, and keyboard interaction by default.
Developer and CMS Tips (TYPO3, WordPress)
TYPO3:
- Use Fluid templates with semantic tags (<article>, <main>, <nav>) to improve structure.
- Choose content elements that reflect meaningful markup, not just styled wrappers.
WordPress:
- Choose accessibility-ready themes with semantic markup built in.
- Use blocks like “Group”, “Columns”, and “Cover” wisely, but review generated HTML for semantic accuracy.
Universal Dev Tips:
- ✅ Always use headings (<h1>–<h6>) in logical order inside semantic containers.
- ✅ Mark up navigation with <nav> and footers with <footer>.
- ✅ Use <label> with form fields, not just placeholders.
Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them
❌ “Divs are fine if I use ARIA roles.”
✔️ Fix: Semantic HTML should come first. Use ARIA only when there’s no native alternative.
❌ “Semantic tags are just for SEO.”
✔️ Fix: They also support screen readers, keyboard navigation, and developer clarity.
❌ “I can skip tags like <main> or <article>—they’re optional.”
✔️ Fix: Omitting them reduces navigability and screen reader context.
Explore related terms: ARIA, WCAG, Screen Reader, Web Accessibility, Keyboard Navigation
Key Takeaway
Semantic HTML is the foundation of accessible, meaningful web content.
It’s not just about clean code, it’s about communicating purpose, enabling assistive tech, and meeting compliance standards. When in doubt, use native, meaningful elements first.
Want to Check Your HTML for Semantic Structure?
Use the T3AA Accessibility Analyzer or our Semantic HTML Best Practice Guide to ensure your markup supports real-world accessibility.
Build with clarity. Mark up with meaning. Include everyone.