Chami.com Tips

Describing tables using the SUMMARY attribute in TABLE tags

Remember the ALT attribute in IMG tags? The SUMMARY attribute in TABLE tags serve a similar purpose, in that it will provide a description of the table to users of non-visual browsers. Unlike the ALT tag, Explorer 4.x, Communicator 4.x and lower browsers do not use the SUMMARY tag to display pop-up hints when the mouse is paused over the table.

NOTE:

You may not see a visual change by adding the SUMMARY attribute if you're using a graphical browser. However, HTML authors concerned about their content being accessible in different mediums and users with disabilities, for example, are advised to use provide a summary of the table.

Following is an example of a table with the SUMMARY attribute defined.

HTML code used to create the above table:

TIP:

Use the TITLE attribute for tables to create pop-up hints containing descriptions you provide.