A page should have only one level-one heading

Rule heading-one-unique · Structure & semantics · impact minor · Static + live

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Why it matters#

The level-one heading names the page as a whole. When several compete the outline has no single root, and "jump to the first heading" stops identifying what the page is — screen-reader users lose the fastest orientation cue the document has.

How to fix#

Keep the one <h1> that names the page and demote the others to <h2>/<h3> so they nest beneath it.

Example#

<h1>Store</h1><h1>Basket</h1>

<h1>Store</h1><h2>Basket</h2>

WCAG success criteria#

2.4.6 Headings and Labels — Level AA#

Headings and labels must describe the topic or purpose of the content they introduce.

Understanding 2.4.6

Standards#

This rule contributes to the following standards:

WCAG AA EN 301 549

References#

• W3C — Headings