Skip to content

Change of Context

1 minute read

Last updated:

When elements like links or buttons receive focus, they must not automatically trigger an unexpected change in context. For example, a link should not activate when a keyboard user tabs to the link. It should only activate when someone presses the Enter key. This rule is true for all interactive elements, not only links and buttons.

It can confuse people if the context of a page unexpectedly changes when they have not initiated the change. This behavior is a problem for people with cognitive and learning disabilities. It can also be an issue for anyone who relies on assistive technology such as a screen reader.

Interactive components must behave in predictable ways. Predictable behaviors help people understand and navigate content successfully.