HTML tabindex Global Attribute
Description
The tabindex
global attribute allows developers to control the tab order of elements in an HTML document. This means that they can choose the order in which elements are focused when a user presses the Tab
key.
The tabindex
attribute can take on an integer value. If the value is zero or positive, the element will be focusable and will be included in the tab order. If the value is negative, the element will be focusable, but will not be included in the tab order.
The tabindex
attribute can be used on any HTML element, even those that are not normally focusable, such as paragraphs and headings. This can be useful for creating custom tab orders for forms or other interactive elements.
However, it is important to use the tabindex
attribute carefully. If used incorrectly, it can make a web page difficult or impossible to navigate for users who are using a keyboard.
Here are some tips for using the tabindex
attribute:
- Use the
tabindex
attribute to control the tab order of interactive elements, such as form fields, buttons, and links. - Do not use the
tabindex
attribute to make elements focusable that are not normally focusable, such as paragraphs and headings. - Avoid using the
tabindex
attribute to change the default tab order of elements. - If you must use the
tabindex
attribute to change the default tab order, make sure that the new tab order is logical and easy to understand.
Here is an example of how to use the tabindex
attribute to control the tab order of a form:
<form>
<input type="text" tabindex="1" placeholder="Name">
<input type="email" tabindex="2" placeholder="Email">
<input type="submit" tabindex="3" value="Submit">
</form>
In this example, the name
field will be focused first when the user presses the Tab
key. The email
field will be focused next, and then the submit
button.
By using the tabindex
attribute, developers can create custom tab orders for their web pages that make them easier to navigate for users who are using a keyboard.
Syntax
<element tabindex="number">
Values
- numberThe number determines the tab order of the element (the order starts with 1).
Example
<p>Using the <kbd>Tab</kbd> button, select the required link:</p>
<a href="#" tabindex="3">Link # 1</a> <br>
<a href="#" tabindex="2">Link # 2</a> <br>
<a href="#" tabindex="5">Link # 3</a> <br>
<a href="#" tabindex="1">Link # 4</a> <br>
<a href="#" tabindex="4">Link # 5</a>
Browser Support
The following table will show you the current browser support for the HTML tabindex
Global Attribute.
Desktop | |||||
Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Tablets / Mobile | |||||
Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Last updated by CSSPortal on: 14th October 2023