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Level AWCAG 2.0

1.3.3 Sensory Characteristics

Instructions for understanding and operating content do not rely solely on sensory characteristics such as shape, color, size, visual location, orientation, or sound.

Last reviewed: September 9, 2026

Understanding 1.3.3

Instructions like 'click the round green button' or 'see the sidebar on the right' assume the user can perceive shape, color, and spatial position. Blind users, low-vision users using magnification (which can reflow layout), and colorblind users may not be able to identify the referenced element by sensory description alone, so instructions need an additional, non-sensory identifier such as a label or name.

How to Meet It

When giving instructions, refer to elements by their text label, name, or programmatic role in addition to (or instead of) shape, color, or position. For example, "Select the 'Submit' button" rather than "select the green button on the right." This applies to any instructional text, not just to color usage (which is separately covered by 1.4.1).

Code Examples

INCORRECT
<p>To proceed, press the round button on the right.</p>
CORRECT
<p>To proceed, press the "Continue" button.</p>

Frequently Asked Questions

How is this different from 1.4.1 Use of Color?

1.4.1 is specifically about not using color alone to convey information (e.g., marking required fields only in red). 1.3.3 is broader: it covers any sensory characteristic, including shape, size, visual location, and sound, not just color.

Related Success Criteria

1.3.1 Info and Relationships1.3.2 Meaningful Sequence1.3.4 Orientation1.3.5 Identify Input Purpose

Quick Facts

  • Criterion1.3.3
  • LevelA
  • IntroducedWCAG 2.0

Automate Compliance

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