#34 Try This: Keyboard Navigation (Because Some Readers Can’t Use a Mouse)

Aug 19

Mini-Series: Building an Accessible Website (Even If Tech Isn’t Your Thing)

What’s Keyboard Navigation?

Keyboard navigation lets people move around websites using only the Tab key (plus Enter, Space, etc.)—no mouse required. It’s essential for folks who can’t use a mouse, are keyboard users, or use assistive tools.

Why It Matters

If users can’t reach buttons or links with a keyboard, they’re barred from your content…no matter how amazing your writing is.

How You Test It (and Fix It if It Fails)

Open your site and use the Tab key to move through clickable items: links, buttons, form fields.
Look for a clear visual indicator (focus ring, highlight, underline).
Example on my homepage. If you press the tab button a few times, it’ll take you through each clickable link and draw a box around whichever one you are focusing on.
If there’s no visible focus:
- Enable built-in focus styles in your site theme.
Make sure all interactive elements (including dropdowns and checkboxes) are keyboard-accessible.

Need to Do Next:

Tab-test every page
Ensure no interactive elements are skipped
Make focus indicators visible
Fix anything that’s unreachable or invisible via keyboard

Let’s Chat!

Find anything interesting testing out your own site? Drop it in a comment!

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Maisie Meyers