Headings in Drupal

Headings help readers scan and understand a page quickly. They also provide crucial structure for screen readers, improve search engine understanding and make content easier to maintain over time. Using headings correctly is one of the simplest ways to improve accessibility and clarity.

Why Heading Structure Matters

  • Accessibility: Screen reader users rely on headings to navigate a page. Headings create a meaningful outline, letting users jump to the section they need without reading everything.
  • Clarity for all readers: Most people scan before they read. Consistent headings make key points easy to find.
  • SEO and search visibility: Search engines use headings to understand page topics and section importance. Clear structure supports better indexing and snippet generation.
  • Consistency and maintenance: A logical heading order makes large pages easier to update and reorganize later.

How Heading Levels Work

Headings should follow a hierarchical order, like an outline. Think of headings as the page’s table of contents. A reader should be able to understand the structure of your content by scanning the headings alone.

  • H1 – The page’s main title. Use only one H1 per page.
  • H2 - Major sections of the page.
  • H3 - Subsections under an H2.
  • H4–H6 - Additional nested subsections when needed.

Start with H2s for main sections beneath the page title (H1). Use H3s (and lower) only for subsections within an H2.

Don’t skip heading levels or use them out of order. Headings should follow a consistent hierarchy (H2 → H3 → H4).

Example of a Well-Structured Page

H1: Undergraduate Admissions
  H2: Apply to Tulane
    H3: Application Requirements
    H3: Deadlines
  H2: Visit Campus
    H3: In-Person Tours
    H3: Virtual Options
  H2: Scholarships and Aid
    H3: Merit Scholarships
    H3: Financial Aid Process

Example Pages

Heading Best Practices

  • Choose heading levels for structure, not appearance. Don’t select a level because it “looks right.”
  • Don’t fake headings with bold or large text. If something is a section title, style it as a real heading.
  • Use headings to break up long content. Well-placed headings help readers scan and find what they need quickly.
  • Write headings that clearly describe the section. Good headings preview what’s next (for example, “Eligibility Requirements,” not “More Information”).
  • Keep headings short and scannable. Aim for a concise phrase rather than a full sentence.
  • Make headings unique. Avoid repeating the same heading (like “Overview”) across multiple sections, which can be confusing for navigation.
  • Don’t use headings for non-heading content, and don’t overuse them. Too many headings can be as confusing as too few, so use them only when they add structure.