Reading Order (Accessibility)

Reading order describes the sequence in which content is presented or interpreted, particularly by assistive technologies and when a layout is simplified. A two-column service page may look logical visually but become confusing if the underlying content order jumps between unrelated paragraphs. Headings, paragraphs, images, and form instructions should make sense when read sequentially without relying on their position on the screen. Reading order is distinct from focus order, which determines how keyboard navigation moves among interactive elements. For a handyman quote page, both matter: instructions should be read before the relevant field, and buttons should receive focus in a predictable sequence. Meaningful structure usually starts with sound HTML.