2.1.4 Character Key Shortcuts

Single-key shortcuts are convenient for some users but create problems for others. Voice control users may accidentally trigger shortcuts when dictating text. Users who have difficulty with precision may activate shortcuts unintentionally.

If a shortcut is triggered by a single letter, number, punctuation mark, or symbol key (not requiring a modifier like Ctrl or Alt), then users must have the ability to turn it off, remap it to a key combination that includes a modifier, or the shortcut must only be active when a specific component has focus.

If you implement single-key shortcuts, provide a settings panel where users can remap or disable them.

Alternatively, require modifier keys (Ctrl, Alt, Meta) for all shortcuts. Single-key shortcuts are a convenience, not a requirement.

Focus-activated shortcuts, such as pressing a key to activate a function only while a specific widget is focused, are acceptable without modification controls.

• Web application where pressing J or K navigates items without any way to remap or disable these shortcuts
• Keyboard shortcut that uses a single letter and conflicts with voice control dictation