The plain-English version
A composite-control focus strategy where one intended item has tabindex zero and its peers have tabindex minus one.
Why it matters
It separates entry into a component from navigation among its items.
Let’s make it click
A suitable toolbar moves actual focus with its navigation keys and updates the item that Tab reaches.
Vibe Bro’s heads-up
Focus and selection are different states. Follow the chosen component pattern rather than applying one arrow-key scheme to every group of controls.
You might also hear
- roving focus
- tabindex zero
- composite navigation
The docs behind it
Research sources reviewed .
Editorial review · October 28, 2026
Supported: The tabindex zero/minus-one strategy and actual-focus example match WAI roving-focus guidance. Focus/selection and component-specific key differences are correctly retained.