# Heading Structure Validator

> Check a page for skipped heading levels, missing or multiple H1s and empty headings.

Heading structure must form a logical outline: exactly one H1, no skipped levels, and no empty headings. Screen reader users navigate by heading, so a page that jumps from H1 to H3 loses a rung on the ladder. This validator lists the outline and flags every break against WCAG 1.3.1 and 2.4.6.

**URL:** https://convertto.tech/t/heading-structure-validator
**Category:** Accessibility (https://convertto.tech/c/accessibility-tools)
**Privacy:** Runs entirely in the browser; no upload
**Cost:** Free, no sign-up
**Last updated:** 2026-08-01

## Key facts

- **Checks:** Skipped levels, missing H1, multiple H1s, empty headings and the starting level
- **WCAG criteria:** 1.3.1 Info and Relationships, 2.4.6 Headings and Labels
- **Privacy:** Runs entirely in your browser — nothing is uploaded
- **Cost:** Free, unlimited, no sign-up

## How to use

1. Enter or paste your html.
2. Turn "Require exactly one H1" on or off as needed.
3. The result appears immediately — copy or download it.

## FAQ

### Why does skipping a heading level matter?

Screen reader users jump between headings to navigate. Levels convey nesting, so a jump from H1 to H3 implies a missing section — the listener cannot tell whether they have skipped content or the author has skipped a number.

### Can I have more than one H1?

HTML5 permits it inside sectioning elements, but assistive technology support is inconsistent and it makes the outline ambiguous. One H1 per page remains the safest choice.

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