Level ASince WCAG 2.0
2.1.1 Keyboard
Guideline 2.1: Keyboard Accessible – Everything also works without a mouse.
What does the rule require?
Everything can be operated with the keyboard alone. Many people do not use a mouse: because of paralysis, tremor, blindness – or simply because it is faster.
How to get it right
Use real <button> and <a> elements. They work with Tab, Enter and Space automatically. A <div onclick> does not.
Who benefits most?
- People with motor disabilities
- Blind people
Official wording
This page explains the rule in simple words. Only the original W3C text is normative.
- “Understanding Keyboard” at W3C (external site)
- Techniques in the WCAG Quick Reference (external site)