Checkbox
<gcds-checkbox>

Also called: checklist, check list.

A checkbox is a set of options for one or multiple selections.

Checkbox anatomy – with fieldset

1. The fieldset legend acts as a heading to identify the grouped checkboxes. Legend text is left aligned and in sentence case (only the initial letter is capitalized).
2. The fieldset hint text communicates specific requirements for the checkbox grouping to support task success.
3. The checkbox shows, by the presence or absence of the checkmark (also called the checked box), whether an option has been selected or not.
4. The checkmark shows that an option has been selected.
5. The checkbox label states the choice the checkbox represents. Label text is in sentence case.
6. The checkbox hint text gives users additional information about the choice.

Single checkbox anatomy

Use the fieldset component with the checkbox, except for checkboxes with a single box to check.

1. The checkbox shows, by the presence or absence of the checkmark (also called the checked box), whether an option has been selected or not.
2. The checkmark shows that an option has been selected.
3. The checkbox label states the choice the checkbox represents. Label text is in sentence case.
4. The checkbox hint text gives users additional information about the choice.

Design and accessibility for checkboxes

Make checkboxes visible and options clear

• Limit the number of options to 6-7.
• Limit text for each option to a few words or a short phrase and include hint text for more context.
• Generally, order options alphabetically. In some cases, it can be helpful for you to order them from most to least common.

Help people understand how to use checkboxes

• Avoid assuming a person will know how to use a checkbox.
• Use the fieldset's hint text to include a cue for users unfamiliar with radios so they know they can only make a single selection. For example, "Select the response that best applies".
• Include fieldset's hint text to include a cue for users unfamiliar with checkboxes so they know they can make multiple selections. For example, "Select all that apply".
• Avoid pre-selecting checkbox options. This makes it more likely that users will miss a question and submit a wrong answer.