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aria-hidden-focus

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Use when reviewing rendered HTML, interactive components, or design-system patterns related to Remove focusable elements from aria-hidden containers. Check native semantics first, then inspect keyboard behavior, focus flow, accessible names, and screen-reader output where relevant.

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Source SKILL.md: https://github.com/thedaviddias/Front-End-Checklist/blob/HEAD/skills/aria-hidden-focus/SKILL.md

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Remove focusable elements from aria-hidden containers

When a keyboard user tabs into an aria-hidden element, the screen reader remains silent, leaving the user with no idea where their focus is or what they can interact with.

Quick Reference

  • Elements with aria-hidden="true" must not contain focusable children
  • Focusing on a hidden element creates a 'ghost' focus for screen reader users
  • Use tabindex="-1" or inert to properly hide interactive elements

Check

Scan aria-hidden="true" containers for focusable elements like links, buttons, or inputs.

Fix

Add tabindex="-1" to focusable children inside aria-hidden containers or use the inert attribute.

Explain

Explain why focusable elements inside aria-hidden containers cause confusion for keyboard and screen reader users.

Code Review

Review the rendered markup and interactive states that affect Remove focusable elements from aria-hidden containers. Flag exact elements, roles, labels, focus behavior, or keyboard interactions that violate the rule, and note how to verify the fix with browser accessibility tooling or assistive tech.

For full implementation details, code examples, and framework-specific guidance, see references/rule.md.

Rule page: https://frontendchecklist.io/en/rules/accessibility/aria-hidden-focus