Replace b and i elements

Rule ID HTML 1
Definition strong, em or in some cases h1-h6 heading elements must be used instead of b and i elements.
Purpose
  • In inline formatting use, the b and i elements do not convey the semantics of the text content.
  • The b and i elements are often misused for emphasizing words in a sentence, or to change the styling of content being used as a section header in the page.
Mappings none
WCAG Success Criteria

4.1.1 Parsing (Level A, Primary Success Criterion)

Rule Category Styling/Content
Scope Element
Target Resources b and i elements
  • b
  • i
Techniques
  • If a b element is being used in a sentence for emphasizing a word or phrase, replace it with the strong element.
  • If an i element is being used in a sentence for emphasizing a word or phrase, replace it with the em element.
  • If a b or i element is being used to style a section heading, replace it with an h1-h6 heading element, depending on the level of heading needed in accordance with the structure of the page.
Informational Links