Text and Lists

Nested Lists

Structure Shows Order

A release checklist uses an unordered list for categories and an ordered nested list for steps that must happen in sequence.

Program

Lists are structure, not decoration. Use unordered lists when order does not matter and ordered lists when the sequence is part of the meaning.

nested_lists.html
Visuals: captured from real browser rendering
<ul>
  <li>Plan</li>
  <li>Build
    <ol>
      <li>Test</li>
      <li>Publish</li>
    </ol>
  </li>
</ul>

  1. Start an unordered release list.

    An empty release list area appears.
    The ul element creates a group of peer items.

  2. Add the Plan item.

    The list shows a Plan bullet.
    Each li is one item in the unordered group.

  3. Add the Build item.

    The list shows Plan and Build bullets.
    Build is another peer item in the same list.

  4. Nest an ordered list inside Build.

    A numbered area appears under Build.
    The nested ol says these child steps are sequential.

  5. Add the first ordered child step.

    The nested list shows step 1, Test.
    The first child item receives number 1.

  6. Add the second ordered child step.

    The nested list shows Test then Publish.
    The second child item receives number 2.
unordered list A ul groups peer items without saying one must come before another.
ordered list An ol gives its items a sequence that readers should follow.