Keyboard Navigation: 6 Practical Website Checks

The six points in the video

This is a silent video. The headings, explanations and labels below reproduce the information on screen.

1. 1

   Step 1: Start on an important page

   0:18

   Choose a real task, such as finding a service or making contact.

   On-screen labels: Visitor task; Starting page; Clear destination.

2. 2

   Step 2: Move through the controls

   0:30

   Use Tab and Shift+Tab to review forward and backward movement.

   On-screen labels: Forward with Tab; Back with Shift+Tab; Interactive controls.

3. 3

   Step 3: Check the visible position

   0:42

   You need to see which control currently has focus.

   On-screen labels: Visible focus; Logical order; No hidden position.

4. 4

   Step 4: Activate the controls

   0:54

   Check links, buttons and menus using the expected keys.

   On-screen labels: Enter for links; Enter or Space for buttons; Menu controls.

5. 5

   Step 5: Look for keyboard traps

   1:06

   You should be able to move into and out of components.

   On-screen labels: Open a component; Operate it; Move away again.

6. 6

   Step 6: Finish the real task

   1:18

   A quick keyboard check is only one part of an accessibility review.

   On-screen labels: Complete the form; Follow the next step; Record any barriers.

Common questions

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