Design Principle
An interface that works from the keyboard is usually clearer because focus order reveals the real task structure.
Principle An interface that works from the keyboard is usually clearer because focus order reveals the real task structure.
Design action Define continuous focus order for navigation, forms, tables, dialogs, and toolbars; every interactive control has visible focus and semantic labels.
Examples Positive example: Admin tools, editors, knowledge bases, settings, and long forms need repeated operation. Counterexample: Actions appear only on hover and have no keyboard path.
Apply when Admin tools, editors, knowledge bases, settings, and long forms need repeated operation. Users need to judge state, scope, risk, or next action quickly.
Source notes Source note: Synthesized from Apple HIG, Material Design, GOV.UK/Polaris/Atlassian component practices, and interaction accessibility principles.
Agent Directive
Define continuous focus order for navigation, forms, tables, dialogs, and toolbars; every interactive control has visible focus and semantic labels.