WCAG 2.1 AA Checklist (Plain English)

1. Perceivable

• Every meaningful image has descriptive alt text; decorative images use empty alt.
• Video has captions; audio has a transcript; pre-recorded video has audio description where needed.
• Content structure (headings, lists, tables) is marked up with real semantic HTML.
• Information isn't conveyed by colour alone.
• Text contrast is at least 4.5:1 (3:1 for large text) — check with our contrast checker.
• Text can resize to 200% and reflow on small screens without loss of content or function.

2. Operable

• Everything works with a keyboard alone, with no keyboard traps.
• A visible focus indicator shows where you are.
• Users have enough time; moving or auto-updating content can be paused or stopped.
• Nothing flashes more than three times per second (seizure safety).
• Pages have descriptive titles, a logical focus order, and meaningful link text.
• A skip link lets keyboard users bypass repeated navigation.

3. Understandable

• The page language is set (and language changes within content are marked).
• Navigation and components behave consistently and predictably across the site.
• Form fields have clear labels and instructions.
• Errors are identified in text, described clearly, and suggestions for fixing them are offered.

4. Robust

• Markup is valid and elements are properly nested.
• Custom components expose correct name, role, and value (via semantic HTML or ARIA).
• Status messages are announced to assistive technology without moving focus.

Remember: automated tools catch only part of this list. Reading order, meaningful alt text, and logical focus order need a person. When you're ready for a thorough check, see our audit service, and in Ontario pair this with the AODA checklist.