WCAG 2.1 · Level A · Operable

WCAG 2.1.4 — Character Key Shortcuts

Single-character key shortcuts must be turn-off-able, remappable, or only active on focus.

WCAG 2.1.4 at a glance

Level A · Principle: Operable · Added in WCAG 2.1. Level A is the minimum — failing it blocks some users entirely.

What it means

Single-character key shortcuts must be turn-off-able, remappable, or only active on focus.

Who it helps

Speech-input users and people who hit keys accidentally.

Common failures

  • App-wide single-letter shortcuts that fire during dictation

How to meet WCAG 2.1.4

  1. Let users disable or remap shortcuts
  2. Scope shortcuts to a focused component

How to test it

Manual.

Frequently asked questions

Is WCAG 2.1.4 Level A or AA?
WCAG 2.1.4 (Character Key Shortcuts) is a Level A success criterion, introduced in WCAG 2.1. Level A is the baseline.
How do I test WCAG 2.1.4?
Manual.

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