Give every control a clear purpose
Use explicit labels for form fields and descriptive names for buttons. Explain unusual formats before submission. Placeholder text can provide an example, but should not be the only label because it disappears during entry. Distinguish required fields from optional information and avoid collecting details that are not needed for the task.
Keep navigation predictable
Use consistent names for the same destination. Organize long content with descriptive headings and provide a way to skip repeated navigation. A visitor should be able to understand where a link leads from its label and context. On smaller screens, make sure opening and closing the menu is possible without a precise pointer gesture.
Support keyboard interaction
Review the order in which controls receive focus and ensure the active control is visible. A person should be able to reach, operate, and leave interactive components without a mouse. Check that overlays do not trap users unexpectedly. A custom component needs careful testing; native browser controls often provide useful built-in behavior.
Help people recover from errors
Identify the field that needs attention and explain how to correct it. Keep information the person has already entered when possible. Do not rely only on red borders or icons to communicate failure. For success messages, clearly explain what happened and what happens next. A message that says “done” may be insufficient when the user needs a reference number or an email follow-up.
Validate with more than automation
Review contrast, text resizing, small screens, keyboard behavior, and assistive technology. Automated checks are useful but cannot establish full conformance on their own. Ask people to complete realistic tasks and observe barriers. The W3C accessibility guidance linked below provides a reference for planning and evaluation; a published accessibility statement should describe actual practices and limitations.