What is Meaning of the tabindex attribute?

The tabindex attribute in HTML is used to specify the tab order of elements within a web page. It determines the sequence in which elements receive focus when users navigate through the page using the keyboard’s Tab key.

By assigning specific tabindex values to elements, developers can control the order in which users can interact with form fields, links, and other focusable elements.

Syntax

<input type="text" tabindex="1">

Where,

• tabindex="number" specifies the order in which elements should receive focus, with a lower number indicating earlier focus in the tab sequence.

Key Point	Description
Tab Order	The tabindex attribute determines the order in which elements receive focus when users navigate using the Tab key.
Focusable Elements	Elements such as form fields, links, buttons, and other interactive elements can receive focus and be navigated using the keyboard.
Default Behavior	Without a tabindex attribute, elements are typically included in the tab order based on their position in the HTML document’s source order.
Accessibility	Care should be taken when modifying the tab order to ensure that the page remains accessible to users who rely on keyboard navigation, including those with disabilities.

Features

• Tab Sequence: Elements with lower tabindex values receive focus before elements with higher values. If multiple elements have the same tabindex, their order is determined by their position in the HTML source order.
• Customization: Developers can customize the tab order by assigning specific tabindex values to elements, ensuring that user interaction follows a logical and intuitive sequence.