What is caret browsing?

Caret browsing, also known as caret navigation, is a web browsing technique that uses the caret (the blinking cursor) as the primary means of interacting with web pages. Instead of clicking links or using the mouse to select text, users navigate and interact with elements by moving the caret to them and then using keyboard shortcuts or context menus.

Here's a breakdown of its key characteristics:

• Focus on Keyboard Navigation: Caret browsing is entirely keyboard-driven. The caret's position dictates the active element, allowing users to interact with links, forms, buttons, and other elements without ever touching a mouse.

• Enhanced Accessibility: This method is extremely beneficial for users with disabilities, especially those with motor impairments who find using a mouse difficult or impossible. It offers a more efficient and streamlined interaction for keyboard-only users.

• Precision and Control: Caret browsing provides a precise level of control. Users can move the caret to very specific elements within a webpage, offering greater accuracy than some mouse-based interactions.

• Efficiency: For experienced users, caret browsing can be significantly faster than using a mouse, especially for tasks involving repetitive actions like form filling or navigating complex websites.

• Implementation Challenges: While browsers support caret navigation to a degree, full and consistent implementation across all websites requires careful design and development practices by website creators. Many websites are not optimized for caret navigation, which can lead to usability issues.

• Techniques: Different browsers and operating systems offer varying degrees of support and techniques for caret browsing. These might include using the Tab key to cycle through elements, arrow keys for fine-grained movement, and shortcuts for activating selected elements (often Enter or Space).

In short, caret browsing is a powerful but often underutilized technique that emphasizes keyboard-based interaction and offers significant accessibility advantages. However, its widespread adoption requires both browser improvements and conscious web development that prioritizes accessibility.