Avoid positive tabindex values

Rule tabindex-positive · Document, language & navigation · impact moderate · Static + live

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Why it matters#

A positive tabindex forces an element to the front of the tab order, overriding DOM order and almost always producing a confusing, inconsistent focus sequence.

How to fix#

Remove the positive value (use 0 to make something focusable, -1 for programmatic focus) and order elements in the DOM instead.

Example#

<input tabindex="3">

<input tabindex="0">

WCAG success criteria#

2.4.3 Focus Order — Level A#

Focus must move in an order that preserves meaning and operability.

Understanding 2.4.3

Standards#

This rule contributes to the following standards:

WCAG A EN 301 549 Best practice

References#

• WCAG — Focus Order