columnheadings

Column headings are the labels placed at the top of each column in a table. They identify the data stored in that column and help readers scan, compare, and interpret the information. Clear column headings improve readability and enable easier data manipulation, such as sorting or filtering.

In different contexts, column headings have specific implementations. In HTML, column headings are created with table header cells, typically within the thead element, and marked with th. The scope attribute can indicate that a header applies to a column, which aids assistive technologies. In spreadsheets, column headings appear in the first row of the sheet (and may be frozen or repeated when printing). In word processors, tables use header rows, and repeating those rows on subsequent pages helps readers maintain context across long tables.

Design and accessibility considerations are important. Column headings should be concise, consistent, and descriptive, and they may include units or formatting notes where needed. Avoid duplicating data in the headings themselves. For accessibility, use proper semantic markup, mark header cells as headers, and define scope where appropriate. Ensure sufficient contrast and readability, and provide a table caption if context is needed beyond the headings.

Best practices include keeping the column set reasonable, aligning content for quick scanning, enabling sorting if supported by the software, and including a descriptive caption or legend when the table’s purpose isn’t obvious from the headings alone.