Maintain Context on Focus

When a user interface element gains focus, the context or page does not change unexpectedly.

• Clicking on a form field should not navigate the user away from the current page or open a new window.
• Focusing on a button should not automatically submit a form or initiate a different action without explicit user input.

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Context change may be acceptable if it is part of the intended functionality, such as opening a modal with additional information that the user expects.

• Clearly indicate any actions that will result in a context change so users are prepared.
• Test with various assistive technologies to ensure that focus changes do not disrupt users’ workflows.

• Navigate through interactive elements on a page and ensure that focusing on these elements does not trigger unexpected changes in the content or user interface.
• Use assistive technologies, like screen readers, to verify that focus management does not cause unintended context shifts.

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