What is the recommended practice for tables in web design?

Associating data cells with header cells is essential for enhancing accessibility and ensuring that users, especially those using assistive technologies like screen readers, can understand the structure and meaning of the data presented in tables. By explicitly linking data cells to their corresponding headers, users can better navigate the table and grasp the relationships between different data points.

This practice also aligns with the standards set forth by various accessibility guidelines, such as the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) and Section 508, which emphasize the need for semantic markup to facilitate comprehension by users with disabilities. Properly marked headers provide necessary context, making it easier for all users to interpret the information correctly and efficiently.

Utilizing visual styles alone may enhance the appearance of a table but does not improve accessibility. Avoiding headers entirely compromises the table's clarity and usability, while restricting the number of columns does not inherently address accessibility concerns and could limit the presentation of data needed for a complete understanding.