Perceivable · Level AA · Introduced in WCAG 2.1
WCAG 1.4.10: Reflow
Published by whatisADA / Grow Wild Agency · Updated
What this criterion means
Content should reflow without loss or two-dimensional scrolling at a width equivalent to 320 CSS pixels, or a height equivalent to 256 CSS pixels for vertically written content, apart from content needing a two-dimensional layout.
A practical example
A benefits application has a fixed-width two-column form. At a narrow effective viewport, stack the fields and keep the submit action in the reading flow. A genuinely two-dimensional data table can have its own scroll area.
How to check it
- Use a 320-CSS-pixel-wide viewport or the equivalent zoom setup for horizontally written pages.
- Read and complete the whole page, including open navigation, dialogs and validation states.
- Identify any horizontal scrolling and decide whether it comes from essential two-dimensional content or a repairable layout constraint.
What can be missed
An exception for a table does not exempt the entire page. Sticky headers, cookie notices and fixed toolbars can create losses of content even when the main text reflows.
Record your test
Use this worksheet to record what you actually checked. Notes stay on this device when you choose Save; they are not sent to us. Avoid personal or confidential information on shared devices.
These are your observations, not automated results or a conformance certificate. A complete evaluation needs appropriate scope, supported technologies, all applicable criteria and relevant page states.
Primary sources and scope
This is independent implementation guidance with original examples. The linked standard contains the full definitions, exceptions and conformance requirements. A criterion or checklist alone does not establish legal applicability or whole-site conformance.