Find all unchecked checkboxes in jQuery

javascript

prompt-engineering

functions

callbacks

byNikita Barsukov·Sep 27, 2024

Here's the quickest way to select all unchecked checkboxes using the power of jQuery's :not(:checked) and :checkbox:

var unchecked = $(':checkbox:not(:checked)');

In this line, unchecked contains all unchecked checkboxes at your disposal.

Deep dive: beyond just selection

Now that we've got a quick fix, let's delve into the possibilities of manipulating the checkboxes and discover more about their hidden potential.

Extract values of unchecked checkboxes

Use the .map() function to reveal the values of the unchecked checkboxes. Here it is chained with our selector for efficiency.

var uncheckedValues = $(':checkbox:not(:checked)').map(function() {
  return this.value; // Funny how 'this' is not always about narcissism
}).get();

Checking state within a function

Want to check the state in the context of a function or an event? Turn your gaze upon this snippet:

if (!$(this).is(':checked')) {
  // Congratulations, you've found an unchecked box. Have a cookie 🍪
}

The "No-jQuery" pure JavaScript way

If jQuery doesn't tickle your fancy, embrace pure JavaScript:

var unchecked = document.querySelectorAll('input[type="checkbox"]:not(:checked)');

More tricks up your sleeve

Now let's explore some enhanced tips and tricks for dealing with checkboxes in jQuery.

Enhancing readability with custom selectors

For crystal clear code, consider stretching jQuery's limbs by adding a new :unchecked selector:

$.extend($.expr[':'], {
  unchecked: function(obj) {
    return !$(obj).is(':checked'); // Adding 'unchecked' to the jQuery rebellion
  }
});

Now $('input:unchecked') has joined your arsenal, ready for deployment.

Precision targeting within forms and areas

Dealing with a battlefield of multiple forms or subsets of checkboxes? Scope your selectors for precision strikes:

$('#myForm :checkbox:not(:checked)'); // Your form ID could be 'DeathStar' too

Dealing with dynamic (misbehaving) elements

In dynamic web pages, checkboxes have a life of their own, like disobedient Gremlins. Taming them involves delegation or using .on(). Do not feed them after midnight.

$(document).on('change', ':checkbox', function() {
  var unchecked = $(':checkbox:not(:checked)').length;
  // Update some counter or gremlin-related logistics here
});