Headings in Canvas
Headings structure your content, making it easier to read, navigate, and understand. They are especially important for users who rely on screen readers and improve searchability. This guide explains heading options in Canvas for digital accessibility compliance and improved user experience. When selecting heading levels, follow hierarchy without skipping out of order:
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Heading 1: Reserved for the title field in Canvas. H1 is automatically applied, and no action is needed.
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Heading 2: Use for main sections of your content. Change the text style from Paragraph to Heading 2 in the RCE.
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Heading 3: Use for sub-sections within a Heading 2 section.
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Heading 4: Use for any sub-section under a Heading 3.
Step 1: Select Text
Anywhere you are using the RCE in Canvas, highlight the text that will be a heading.
Step 2: Change the Style
Next to the text size option, choose the correct heading level from the style options in the toolbar. For example, change from Paragraph to Heading 2.
Step 3: Repeat for All Sections and Save
Add meaningful Heading 2 for all sections of your content. If needed, further designate Heading 3 subsections. Then, be sure to save your work.
Canvas Headings FAQ
How does using Headings help people with disabilities?
Users who need assistive technology, such as a screen reader, will inform the user about the organization of the document. Neurodivergent users will also benefit from the visual organization.
Is there a law about having accessible documents?
Yes, section 508 of Title III in the Americans with Disabilities act requires any digital documents that are available to the public should comply with guidelines developed by the World Wide Web Consortium.
Do Headings help readers who do not have any disabilities?
Users often scan web pages to decide which sections to read. Lack of headings makes this process much harder, potentially causing visitors to skip sections of your document.