Browse the Web with a keyboard
Move through links, forms and tabs, recognise keyboard focus and practise useful browser shortcuts without submitting a form accidentally.
Follow the method ↓
The answer in 30 seconds
Start on a simple page without a payment or publishing action. Practise finding a link, opening it and returning before moving on to more complex forms.
Tab generally moves between interactive elements and Shift + Tab moves backwards. A focus outline shows your position; exact shortcuts depend on your browser and operating system.
Examples to adapt
This can be a site defect. Avoid repeatedly activating controls when you cannot see which one is selected.
Use its intended close control and return to the content without submitting by mistake.
Follow the method
- 1Find the focus
Press Tab and look for a visible outline. Move forward a few elements, then return with Shift + Tab.
- 2Open a link
Focus a link and press Enter. Use your browser’s documented back command to return.
- 3Explore a form
Move through fields and buttons without submitting. Check that labels explain the expected information.
- 4Keep a short reference
Look up your browser’s shortcuts for the address bar, finding text and managing tabs. Learn the commands that match your actual tasks.
A checklist to keep
Use these checks to record your observations. They are a reading aid, not an automatic assessment.
| Check | What to examine | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Forward | Tab | Find the focus |
| Backward | Shift + Tab | Check order |
| Open a link | Enter | Check destination |
| Shortcuts | Browser help | Choose the right system |
Free, no sign-up. UTF-8 text with semicolon-separated columns.
What to check
Shortcuts can differ between systems.
A visible control may still have keyboard accessibility problems.
Practise without consequential actions first.
Common questions
Does every page work with a keyboard?
Pages should support accessible interaction, but defects can remain.
How do I report a problem?
Include the page, browser, command and point where navigation becomes blocked.
Sources and documentation
Documentation consulted on . Examples are illustrative; interfaces and results may change.