Every input has a visible label and instructions up front, and error messages say what went wrong and how to fix it.
Why it matters
Placeholder text disappears when learners start typing, and “Invalid entry” doesn’t say what’s invalid.
Clear labels and specific errors keep learners on the task instead of guessing at the form.
What passing looks like
- Each field and answer box has a label that stays visible.
- Format rules come before the learner types.
- Errors name the field and the fix.
Example
An answer box with placeholder text “mL” and the error message “Invalid input.”
The problem: The label vanishes once learners type, and the error doesn’t say what’s wrong.
Label: Dose in mL (numbers only, up to one decimal place) Error: Enter the dose as a number, such as 6.6.
What Pedagrade can’t tell
Pedagrade reads your course’s text and storyboard. It is not a technical scan of the built course. Before launch, pair it with a tool like WAVE or axe and a quick keyboard test.
This check is covered by Pedagrade’s published accuracy tests. See the accuracy report.
Learn more
- W3C, Understanding Success Criterion 3.3.2: Labels or Instructions
- W3C, Understanding Success Criterion 3.3.1: Error Identification
- W3C, Understanding Success Criterion 3.3.3: Error Suggestion
- Pedagrade guide: WCAG checklist for e-learning
Check your own course against this.
Paste a lesson, quiz, or whole course. Each finding shows where it is, why it matters, and the fix written out. Your first review is free.
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