How Semantic HTML Improves Web Accessibility and Code Maintainability

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Semantic HTML involves using descriptive HTML elements that clearly convey the purpose of webpage content, replacing generic tags with meaningful ones like header, nav, main, and footer. These structural tags help assistive technologies, such as screen readers, better interpret and communicate page content to users with disabilities. Key accessibility improvements include adding alternative text to images and attaching labels to form fields so screen readers can identify each element. A portfolio website audit demonstrated how applying these changes made the site more navigable for users relying on assistive tools. Beyond accessibility, semantic HTML also benefits search engine optimisation and makes codebases easier to read and maintain over time.

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