Tables
Tables are meant to display tabular data. A properly made table should contain row headers, column headers, or both. Tables should not be used for lists or in place of columns. (The Digital Team can help to place your text into columns—just ask us!)
Data tables present tabular information in a grid, or matrix, and have column or rows that show the meaning of the information in the grid. Sighted users can visually scan a table and should be able to quickly make visual associations between data in the table and their appropriate row and/or column headers.
Accessibility
Someone that cannot see the table cannot make these visual associations. But creating the table with the proper captions and row/column headers helps users of screen readers navigate through data tables one cell at a time, and they will hear the column and row headers spoken to them.
Over time, a table may need to have rows and/or columns added or deleted.
Adding CaptionsWhile it is not necessary for each table to have a caption, a caption is generally very helpful to describe its contents.
Making HeadersProperly created headers will help those who use screen readers to navigate through data tables one cell at a time, and they will hear the column and row headers spoken to them.
Making a TableHow to start creating a properly accessible table on your Web page