WCAG 2.2 Level AA Quick Guide

Start Here.

WCAG can feel like a lot at first. This quick guide is designed to make it practical.

Use this page to understand how the guide is organized, how to find what you need fast, and where to go next. Then choose a WCAG principle below to dive into clear rules, plain-English explanations, and “what to do” steps you can apply right away.

How this guide is organized

WCAG is made up of four big ideas called principles.
These principles help explain what an accessible website (or document) should do.

Each principle has its own page. Every page uses the same simple format:

• The Rule: What WCAG is asking for
• Why it matters: Who it helps and why it’s important
• What to do: Clear steps you can take right away
• Quick tips: Fast reminders and common fixes

You don’t have to read everything in order. You can jump to the part you need.

3 easy ways to use this guide

1) If you’re new to WCAG

Start with Perceivable, then go in order.
That path helps the ideas build on each other.

2) If you’re fixing a specific problem

Pick the principle that matches what you’re seeing:

• Hard to read, see, or hear content: Check out Perceivable
• Hard to use with a keyboard or navigate: Check out Operable
• Confusing content, unclear forms, or surprise changes: Check out Understandable
• Doesn’t work well with screen readers or assistive tech: Check out Robust

3) If you’re working with a team

Different roles often focus on different principles:

• Content editors and writers: Perceivable + Understandable
• Designers: Perceivable + Operable
• Developers: Operable + Robust
• Project owners and leaders: all four (to set requirements and check quality)

Choose a WCAG principle

Principle 1: Perceivable

People must be able to get the information, even if they can’t see, hear, or process it the usual way.
Go to: Perceivable

Principle 2: Operable

People must be able to use the site, including with a keyboard and other tools.
Go to: Operable

Principle 3: Understandable

People must be able to understand the content and how the site works.
Go to: Understandable

Principle 4: Robust

The site must work well with assistive technology (like screen readers) and keep working as technology changes.
Go to: Robust

Need help applying this to your work?