Can you tab through all radio buttons?

html

accessibility

web-development

best-practices

byNikita Barsukov·Dec 9, 2024

Tabbing through radio buttons doesn't work as some may expect. Only one radio button per each group is accessible with the Tab key due to identical name attributes. To sift through buttons within a group, use the arrow keys (↑/↓). It aligns perfectly with web accessibility standards and maintains the original functionalities.

<!-- Would you look at that! A team of radio buttons, ready for the arrow race! -->
<form>
  <input type="radio" name="group" id="radio1"><label for="radio1">Radio 1</label><br>
  <input type="radio" name="group" id="radio2"><label for="radio2">Radio 2</label><br>
  <input type="radio" name="group" id="radio3"><label for="radio3">Radio 3</label>
</form>

Tip: To ensure single-selection functionality, steer clear of unique names. Let tabbing take you across fields and arrow keys guide you through options!

Science of radio groups and focus behavior

In a radio button group, only one option can be selected to represent that group. Pressing Tab brings focus to the first active or selected item. If none are selected, the first button earns that privilege.

Control your selections effectively using the arrow keys:

For a vertical ride through options, depend on the ↑/↓ arrows.
A horizontal layout? Go left/right with the ←/→ arrows.

Space Bar - the cosmic selector

The Space Bar - the astronaut of your keyboard launches the focused button into a selected state. It might catch stars, but it doesn't catch bars - so no worries about multiple selections!

Time travel with radio groups

When you revisit a group, focus is automatically placed on the previously selected button - a time machine that remembers your past selection. How neat!

Exit strategy

Looking to skip town? Well, the Tab key can help you exit, leading you to the next control. Wish to go back? The Shift + Tab key combo will rewind to the previous control.

W3C has set gold standards for accessibility, and radio button navigation sparkles in adherence.

A journey of inclusivity

By valuing accessibility, we ensure that every user, with any ability, can interact with our web content. A well-structured radio group is your certificate for inclusivity!

Preaching the standards

When clarifying doubts or setting rules, use the W3C best practices as your holy book to create an unshakeable foundation of web accessibility.

Parting bytes - wrapping up radio buttons

It's time to absorb the wisdom dropped so far, refining your coding practice and outlook.

Keys are mightier

Understand the major role of traditional keyboard navigation. Radio buttons work in tandem with it to ensure richer user interaction.

Bug or feature? Clear the clouds

Demystify the radio button navigation behavior for those new to web accessibility. It's not a bug, it's a hard-working feature churning a smoother web journey.