Summary List

Use summary lists to present information as a series of key facts in a consistent, scannable format.

Structure

Summary List Anatomy

1

Label

2

Values

3

Text Link(s) (Optional)

Each summary list item contains:

Key (optional)

  • Visual indicator that relates the item to a chart or infographic on the same screen
  • Four variants available (typically colour-coded or styled distinctly)
  • Only use when the summary list relates to a chart or data visualization
  • Helps users connect summary information to corresponding chart elements

When to include a key:

  • When the summary list accompanies a chart on the same screen
  • When visual correlation between data and summary is helpful
  • When colour coding or visual indicators aid understanding

Label (required)

  • Describes what the value represents
  • Should be concise and clear (typically 1-5 words)
  • Use sentence case, keep labels short and descriptive
  • Should wrap over multiple lines if space doesn't allow
  • Avoid abbreviations unless widely understood

Value (required)

  • The information or data being displayed
  • Can be text, numbers, dates, or short phrases
  • Should wrap over multiple lines if space doesn't allow
  • Use appropriate formatting for the data type (e.g., dates, currency)

Value guidelines:

  • Format consistently (dates, numbers, currencies)
  • Use "Not provided" or similar for missing data rather than leaving blank
  • Keep values concise when possible
  • Use proper typography for specific data types
  • One or more action links for each item (e.g., "Change", "Edit", "Remove")
  • Always aligned to the right
  • Provide actions related to the specific summary list item
  • When users can edit or change the information
  • When actions are available for individual items
  • On review or confirmation screens where corrections may be needed
  • When information is read-only
  • When no actions are available for the item
  • On the final confirmation screens after submission