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  • Perceivable
  • WCAG 1.2.1
  • Level A

What is Audio Transcript Text?

Audio-only content should include a transcript so users can understand the spoken material in text form.

This helps people who cannot hear the audio, and it also supports searching and review.

  • Deaf and hard of hearing users.
  • People in silent or noisy environments.
  • Users who prefer to read instead of listen.
  • Improves Accessibility
  • Searchable Content
  • Better User Experience
  • Supports Compliance

Good vs Bad Examples

Use the tabs to compare audio with and without a transcript.

Audio with transcript

Transcript

Reading English paragraphs is a great way to improve your understanding of the language and expand your vocabulary.

html live code
<audio controls aria-describedby="transcript"><source src="/audio/audio-transcript.mp3" type="audio/mpeg" /></audio><div id="transcript"><h3>Transcript</h3><p>Reading English paragraphs is a great way to improve your understanding of the language and expand your vocabulary.</p></div>
Why this is correct:
  • Provides a full transcript of the audio content.
  • Accessible to users who cannot hear the audio.
  • Supports WCAG 1.2.1.

Implementation Checklist

Progress0 / 6 completed (0%)

Knowledge Check

Answer Yes or No to test your understanding of audio transcripts.

Score: 0 / 5 · Answered: 0 / 5

Should prerecorded audio include a transcript?

Can a transcript help deaf and hard of hearing users?

Should a transcript include meaningful spoken content?

Does WCAG 1.2.1 cover audio-only prerecorded alternatives?

Is an empty audio player enough for accessibility?