landmark-one-main
Web validation
main landmark.Every page needs a single, clearly defined main landmark so assistive-technology users can jump straight to the primary content. Multiple main regions or none at all, require people to hunt through headings or guess where the real content starts, slowing navigation and increasing cognitive load.
Using a single main landmark also keeps the page structure predictable when both HTML elements and ARIA roles are present.
Pass Patterns
One main landmark at the top level
The page has one main landmark at the top level, so screen reader users can jump straight to the primary content.
<header>
<img src="logo.svg" alt="Company logo" />
</header>
<nav>
<!-- site links -->
</nav>
<main>
<h1>Quarterly Results</h1>
<p>Main report goes here.</p>
</main>
<footer>
© 2025 Example Inc.
</footer>Fail Patterns
No main landmark
The page has no main landmark, so screen reader users can't jump to the primary content.
<header>
<img src="logo.svg" alt="Company logo" />
</header>
<div class="content">
<h1>Quarterly Results</h1>
<p>Main report goes here.</p>
</div>
<footer>
© 2025 Example Inc.
</footer>Try It Yourself
Using a screen reader
New to screen reader testing, or need a refresher?
Review this article first: Practical guides for using screen readers
- Load the page in a screen reader.
- Press the landmark shortcut (NVDA
D, VoiceOverControl+Option+Command+L). - Cycle through the landmarks.
Expected result: One main landmark is announced.
Actual result: No main landmark is announced.
FAQ
Why is this validation considered a best practice?
WCAG doesn’t strictly forbid multiple main landmarks, but limiting the page to one keeps navigation simple. It mirrors the way most users understand “main content” and avoids duplicate entries in landmark lists. Some very simple pages such as dialogs may also not require a main at all.
Why is this issue marked as Moderate?
Duplicate or missing main landmarks slow down orientation for screen-reader and keyboard users. They can still reach the content, but extra effort is required, and some assistive technologies may surface the wrong region first.