Focus Management
Focus is managed correctly when UI changes — modals, navigation, dynamic content.
Check
When a modal opens: focus moves to first focusable element inside. When a modal closes: focus returns to the trigger. When a route changes: focus moves to the page heading or skip link. Dynamic content added to DOM: announced via aria-live if important.
Why This Matters
Without focus management, keyboard and screen reader users lose their place when the UI changes. A modal that doesn't trap focus allows users to tab into invisible content behind it — a disorienting experience.
Category
Accessibility
Priority
critical
How to Verify
Open a modal with keyboard only (Tab to trigger, Enter to open). Focus must be inside modal. Close with Escape — focus must return to trigger. Tab through the full app without a mouse — no focus should disappear into the void.