Reference · Beginner

The ul, ol, and li elements

Represent unordered groups and meaningful sequences with list items that preserve count, order, and nesting relationships.

Author: Editorial team
Reviewer: Publication review pending
Review tier: annual

Definition

ul represents an unordered list, ol an intentionally ordered list, and li one item in either list.

Syntax

<ul>
  <li>Semantic HTML</li>
  <li>Responsive CSS</li>
  <li>Minimal JavaScript</li>
</ul>

Context and attributes

List containers accept list items as their children. An ordered list can use start, reversed, or item value when numbering carries real meaning.

Accessibility

List semantics expose grouping and item count. If CSS removes markers, test that the list is still announced correctly in supported assistive technology.

Common misuse

Do not create visual bullet rows with repeated characters and generic containers. A nested list belongs inside the list item it expands.