Assistive technology
Run a Keyboard-Only End-to-End Test
Published by whatisADA / Grow Wild Agency · Updated
Purpose and preparation
Review one complete process without a mouse, from entry to confirmation. Keep a visible focus indicator and use the expected keys for each control type. Record each unreachable action or unexpected focus movement as a separate observation.
A practical example
Register for an event, choose a ticket type, correct an invalid email and reach a test confirmation.
How to check it
- Reload the starting page and use Tab and Shift+Tab to inspect focus order. Try the skip link and check whether focus is visible near sticky headers.
- Operate menus, radios, selects and dialogs using their appropriate keys. Check that every task action is reachable and that no component traps focus unintentionally.
- Trigger validation, move between steps and cancel or finish the process. Record where focus goes after each large content change.
What can be missed
Tab is not the expected navigation key inside every composite widget. A test should distinguish a missing interaction from an unfamiliar but documented keyboard pattern.
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.