Long web pages can be difficult to read, particularly when they contain dense blocks of text or require frequent scrolling to find information again. EaseHeading is a free Chrome extension designed to make long web pages easier to navigate.
EaseHeading creates a table of contents using the H1 and H2 headings on a webpage. Users can quickly move between sections, search the list of headings and see an estimated reading time.
The extension also allows users to pin a particular heading before closing the page. This makes it easier to return to the section they were reading without having to search through the page again.
EaseHeading was created by Kiat, whose interest in technology includes maintaining a homelab.
The idea for the pin feature came from Kiat’s own experience with a wall-of-text webpage that was too difficult to read at the time. He wanted a way to save his place and return to that section later.
Learning about the curb-cut effect also influenced the project. The curb-cut effect describes how features created to remove barriers for people with disability can often benefit a much wider group of people.
Centre for Accessibility Australia (CFA Australia) Senior Trainer and Video Production Lead Nicholas Kapirnas tested EaseHeading and found its heading navigation and saveable links useful. He also suggested including H3 and lower-level headings.
However, Kiat explained that limiting the extension to H1 and H2 headings is an intentional part of its design.
“The lack of lower-level headings is a conscious choice and a key strength. The product is not tailored for everyone, but for a specific group of users whom I think it will help.” Kiat said.
EaseHeading is available as a free Chrome extension and may benefit neurodivergent users, as well as anyone who regularly reads lengthy articles, reports or documentation online.