What are some best practices for keyboard accessibility?

What are some best practices for keyboard accessibility?

Keyboard accessibility ensures that users can navigate and interact with a website or application using only a keyboard. Here are some best practices:

1. Ensure all interactive elements are reachable via keyboard.
2. Use logical tab orders for navigation.
3. Provide visible focus indicators for keyboard users.
4. Implement ARIA roles and properties to enhance accessibility.
5. Test your site with keyboard-only navigation.

Can you explain why visible focus indicators are important?

Visible focus indicators are crucial because they help users know which element is currently selected or active. This is especially important for users who rely on keyboard navigation, as it allows them to track their position on the page and interact with elements effectively.

What tools can I use to test keyboard accessibility?

You can use tools like:

1. WAVE (Web Accessibility Evaluation Tool)
2. Axe Accessibility Checker
3. Keyboard-only navigation testing (manually)
4. Lighthouse in Chrome DevTools These tools can help identify accessibility issues related to keyboard navigation.

Are there any specific guidelines I should follow?

Yes, you should follow the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), particularly guidelines related to keyboard accessibility, such as ensuring all functionality is available from a keyboard and providing sufficient time for users to read and use content.