How do you design keyboard shortcuts that are intuitive and accessible?

1 Why keyboard shortcuts matter

Keyboard shortcuts are combinations of keys that perform a specific action or command on a web page or application. They can help users save time, avoid repetitive mouse movements, and access features that are not visible or reachable by other means. Keyboard shortcuts can also benefit users with disabilities, such as those with visual, motor, or cognitive impairments, who may find keyboards easier or more reliable than other input devices.

2 How to choose keyboard shortcuts

When choosing keyboard shortcuts, there are several factors to consider, such as the context, frequency, and complexity of the action or command. It is also important to avoid conflicts or overlaps with existing shortcuts, including those used by browsers, operating systems, or assistive technologies. Generally speaking, common and consistent keyboard shortcuts should be used that users are familiar with, such as Ctrl+C for copy or Esc for cancel. Additionally, modifier keys such as Ctrl, Alt, or Shift can be used to create combinations that are distinct and unlikely to be triggered accidentally. Single keys or simple combinations should be used for frequent or essential actions, while more complex combinations are better suited for less common or secondary actions. Finally, mnemonic keys such as letters that match the first letter of the action or command can be used to make the keyboard shortcuts easier to remember and learn.

3 How to implement keyboard shortcuts

To implement keyboard shortcuts, you need to use HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to define the key combinations, the actions or commands they trigger, and the feedback or response they provide. Additionally, you should employ the <kbd> element to mark up keyboard shortcuts in web content for semantically meaningful and screen reader accessibility. The KeyboardEvent interface can be used to detect and handle key presses and releases, while the key, code, and modifierState properties can identify the keys and modifiers involved. The preventDefault() method should be used to prevent default behavior of keys or modifiers when employed for keyboard shortcuts. You should also use the aria-label or aria-labelledby attributes to provide descriptive labels for elements with keyboard shortcuts, as well as the aria-keyshortcuts attribute to expose them to assistive technologies.

4 How to inform users about keyboard shortcuts

To ensure users are aware of keyboard shortcuts, you need to provide visible and clear instructions and documentation. Additionally, you should provide users with options and flexibility to customize or disable keyboard shortcuts as per their preferences and needs. You can do this in several effective ways such as having a list or table of keyboard shortcuts in a prominent place, like a menu, sidebar or help page; providing tooltips or popups that show the keyboard shortcuts when users hover over or focus on the elements that have them; providing a keyboard shortcut legend or cheat sheet that users can access by pressing a dedicated key or combination; and providing a settings or preferences page where users can view, change, or turn off keyboard shortcuts and save their choices across sessions.

5 How to test keyboard shortcuts

To test keyboard shortcuts, it is important to evaluate their usability and accessibility from different perspectives and scenarios. Involving users with diverse backgrounds, skills, and abilities in the testing process can help collect feedback and suggestions. A few useful methods and tools to test keyboard shortcuts are: using keyboard-only navigation and interaction to check if they work as expected and are easy to use; using screen readers and other assistive technologies to ensure they are announced correctly; using web accessibility evaluation tools, such as WAVE or axe, to check if they follow WCAG criteria; and using user testing tools, such as UserTesting or UserZoom, to observe how users perform tasks with the shortcuts and measure their satisfaction.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?