Lists are a powerful way to organize content. They help break up dense text, highlight key points and present information in a clear, scannable format. But for lists to be accessible, they must be created using proper list formatting tools, not just typed out manually with dashes or numbers.

Accessible lists are not just visual—they are semantic structures—conveying meaning to the content they organize. When formatted correctly, assistive technologies like screen readers can identify a list, announce how many items it contains and allow users to navigate through it efficiently.

Impact

When lists are created using built-in formatting tools (like bulleted or numbered list buttons in Word, PowerPoint, or web editors), screen readers can recognize them as lists. This allows users to:

  • Hear that they’ve entered a list.
  • Know how many items are in the list.
  • Move between items with a single keystroke.

If a list is created manually by typing numbers or dashes, screen readers won’t recognize it as a list. Instead, users will hear it as a block of text, losing the structure and navigational benefits.

Accessible lists improve:

  • Comprehension by clearly grouping related items.
  • Navigation for screen reader users.
  • Clarity for all readers.

How to create accessible lists

Use the list tools built into your content editor. These tools apply the correct semantic structure behind the scenes, ensuring that assistive technologies can interpret the list properly.

Key principles

  • Use built-in list tools: Always use the bullets or numbering buttons in your editor (e.g., Word, PowerPoint, HTML editors).
  • Choose the right type of list:
    • Use bulleted lists for items that don’t follow a specific order.
    • Use numbered lists for sequences or steps.
  • Avoid manual formatting: Don’t type dashes, asterisks, or numbers to simulate a list.
  • Use nested lists sparingly: While nested lists are supported, they can become confusing if overused or too deeply layered.
  • Avoid lists for long outlines: If your list spans multiple pages or includes complex hierarchy, consider using headings instead.
  • Keep items parallel: Use consistent grammar and structure for each list item.
  • Use lists purposefully: Don’t overuse them—only list items that truly belong together.

Examples

Correct use:

  • Use the bulleted list tool to present key features:
    • Accessible headings.
    • Descriptive links.
    • Proper color contrast.
  • Use the numbered list tool for steps in a process:
    1. Open the document.
    2. Select the text to format.
    3. Click the bulleted list button.

Incorrect use:

These examples look like lists, but they have no structure for assistive technologies to use.

  • Typing a list manually:

    1.  Accessible headings.
    2.  Descriptive links.
    3.  Proper color contrast.

  • Using dashes or asterisks:

    -  Step one.
    -  Step two.

When lists are misused

Improperly formatted lists can confuse screen reader users and disrupt the flow of information. If a list is typed manually, it may be read as a single paragraph with no indication that it’s a list at all. Still worse, if the manually typed list has no punctuation, some screen readers may try to read all of the items as a single sentence!

Overly complex or deeply nested lists can also be difficult to follow. If a list becomes too long or hierarchical, consider breaking it into smaller sections or using headings instead.

To check your work:

  • Use accessibility checkers in Word, Google Docs, or your web editor.
  • Review the list with a screen reader or preview tool.
  • Ask yourself: “Would someone using assistive technology know this is a list?”