Operable · Level A · Introduced in WCAG 2.1
WCAG 2.5.2: Pointer Cancellation
Published by whatisADA / Grow Wild Agency · Updated
What this criterion means
Single-pointer actions should avoid committing a function on pointer-down, allow abort or undo around completion, reverse the down action on release, or meet an essential exception. This gives people a chance to correct an unintended press.
A practical example
A destructive button deletes a record on mousedown. Use normal button activation on release and a suitable confirmation or undo flow, so pressing and moving away does not immediately commit deletion.
How to check it
- Inspect controls implemented with pointerdown, mousedown or touchstart handlers.
- Press a control, move away before release and observe whether the action can be abandoned.
- Where another permitted route is used, verify the actual undo or reversal behavior and document any essential case.
What can be missed
Event names alone do not prove the outcome. Review what commits on each event, including side effects that happen before a later click handler runs.
Record your test
Use this worksheet to record what you actually checked. Notes stay on this device when you choose Save; they are not sent to us. Avoid personal or confidential information on shared devices.
These are your observations, not automated results or a conformance certificate. A complete evaluation needs appropriate scope, supported technologies, all applicable criteria and relevant page states.
Primary sources and scope
This is independent implementation guidance with original examples. The linked standard contains the full definitions, exceptions and conformance requirements. A criterion or checklist alone does not establish legal applicability or whole-site conformance.