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3.1.4
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Abbreviations
Provide Expansions for Abbreviations
Ensure that users can easily find the full meaning of abbreviations used on a page.
Acceptance Criteria
A clear method is available to view the expanded form or full meaning of any abbreviations used in the content.
Examples
- An abbreviation like “W3C” is introduced with its expanded form: “World Wide Web Consortium (W3C).”
- A tooltip appears when users hover over an abbreviation like “HTML,” showing “HyperText Markup Language.”
- A dedicated list or glossary page provides definitions for all abbreviations used on the site.
- Screen readers access the expanded form of abbreviations through hidden text or ARIA attributes.
Exceptions
When abbreviations are explained immediately in context or through links to definitions.
Tips
- Use tooltips or inline expansions for common abbreviations to keep the content accessible without clutter.
- Include a glossary or a “Terms and Abbreviations” page for more complex or less common abbreviations.
How to test?
- Verify that every abbreviation on the page has a method for users to view its full meaning.
- Check tooltips or hidden text in the code to ensure they correctly provide expanded forms of abbreviations.