React Course
React
/
Intermediate

Keyboard Navigation

Definition

Ensuring that all interactive elements in a React application can be reached and operated using only a keyboard.

Explain Like I'm New

Unplug your mouse and try to use your app using only the 'Tab' and 'Enter' keys. If you get stuck, or if you can't tell which button is currently selected, your app fails keyboard navigation.

Real World Example

Creating a custom dropdown menu and adding an `onKeyDown` listener so that pressing the 'Escape' key closes the menu.

Common Use Cases

  • •Power users
  • •Users with motor disabilities
  • •Accessibility compliance

Interactive Example

Loading...
Console output will appear here...

Interview Questions

basic

  • What HTML attribute controls the Tab order?

intermediate

  • How do you manage focus when a Modal opens?

advanced

  • What is a 'Focus Trap'?

Flash Cards

Question

How do you manage focus when a Modal opens?

Click to reveal answer
Answer

You should use a 'Focus Trap'. When the modal opens, focus should automatically move to the first input inside the modal. If the user presses Tab repeatedly, focus should cycle INSIDE the modal, never escaping to the background page until the modal closes.