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How to allow only one radio button to be checked?

html
responsive-design
best-practices
accessibility
Anton ShumikhinbyAnton Shumikhin·Jan 11, 2025
TLDR

By using the same name attribute, only one radio button in a group can be checked at a time. Other buttons from the group automatically uncheck upon a new selection.

Here's a quick look:

<input type="radio" name="fruit" value="Apple"> Apple <input type="radio" name="fruit" value="Banana"> Banana

Selecting either Apple or Banana will toggle the choice, ensuring that both are never checked simultaneously.

Radio button groups: Assigning unique name attributes

When you have multiple groups of radio buttons within a form, this where the name game comes in play. To avoid the cross-aisle confusion of radio button townhall meetings, ensure that each group gets its own distinct name attribute.

Here's how the roll call goes:

<!-- Group 1: Choosing a pet --> <input type="radio" name="pets" value="Dog"> Dog <input type="radio" name="pets" value="Cat"> Cat <!-- Group 2: Choosing a color --> <input type="radio" name="colors" value="Blue"> Blue <input type="radio" name="colors" value="Red"> Red

In the above session, selecting "Dog" won't stir any unrest in the "Color Choices" gathering.

Django forms: The streamlined approach

Django form generation is like a well-organized music festival. It nails down the lineup (creates radio buttons) and makes sure each gig has a unique banner (assigns proper name attributes). Django forms pull off this magic, thanks to the worthy assistant, form validation, that ensures concert-goers stick to one choice only.

Here's a sneak peek:

from django import forms class MyForm(forms.Form): choices = [ ('B', 'Beets'), ('BB', 'Battlestar Galactica'), # Remember, always bear-aware! ] option = forms.ChoiceField(choices=choices, widget=forms.RadioSelect)

Django’s feature band RadioSelect widget sets the stage for a no-hassle, rule-abiding musical feat.

Common issues: Debugging tips to the rescue

Sometimes, the stage lights might falter. But fear not, a thorough checklist will get you back on track:

  • Each radio diva has the right name attribute and belongs to the correct group.
  • The script is typo-free. There's no duplication of names across different bands.
  • Staging a demo show (testing) ensures nobody falls off the stage.

Even for the grandest forms, cross-check those attendance lists, and keep a keen ear out for any off-notes.

Styled to the note: Building responsive forms with radio buttons

While adhering to concert rules, the stage aesthetic is equally important. A well-lit stage (formatting) sets the tone for a memorable performance (user interaction).

  • Custom CSS: Like stage decor, CSS adds flavor to your radio buttons.
  • JavaScript Interactions: For those jaw-dropping effects (dynamic updates) or lightning-fast pyro cues (validation messages).
  • Mobile Responsiveness: Just like roadies, make sure radio buttons size up to the action even on mobile.

For more tips, see backstage (References section).

Cross-browser consistency: A show for all

Check this: Your radio button concert needs to be a hit on all stages (browsers). Different stages may require unique setups, so the soundcheck (testing) across all browsers is of paramount importance.

Accessibility considerations: An inclusive show

No true concert leaves anyone out. Accessibility is not a backstage job—it's a headlining act. Use ARIA roles and labels to guide the visually challenged fans so they can feel the beat of your radio buttons. The W3C's guide in the References is the backstage pass you need for a successful, inclusive gig.