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Moderate2.1.4 Character Key Shortcuts (Level A)Rule ID: accesskeys

accesskey values must be unique and used with caution

Duplicate or poorly chosen `accesskey` values create keyboard shortcut conflicts.

Rule Description

Checks for duplicate accesskey assignments and risky keyboard-shortcut patterns.

Why It Matters

  • Shortcut conflicts make controls unpredictable
  • Character-key shortcuts can cause accidental activation
  • Assistive technology and browser shortcuts may collide

How to Fix

Avoid accesskey unless necessary; if used, ensure uniqueness and provide documentation.

Bad Example:

<button accesskey="s">Save</button> <button accesskey="s">Submit</button>

Good Example:

<button accesskey="s">Save</button> <button accesskey="u">Upload</button>

Common Mistakes

  • Reusing the same access key on a page
  • Not communicating available shortcuts
  • Relying on character-only shortcuts for key actions

Testing

  • Audit all elements with accesskey
  • Verify no duplicate values exist
  • Test interaction with common browser/AT shortcut combinations

External Resources

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