Writing Warnings Before Changes of Context
Writing Warnings Before Changes of Context records a distinct W3C-supported accessibility writing task while keeping implementation mechanics outside the writing guidance.
Before a form-control change automatically changes context, tell users clearly what will happen.
Key details
Important caveats
Scope Boundary
A normal button or link that users deliberately activate is not the same case; this guidance targets changes of context caused by changing a control setting.
Further guidance
Content
Write the warning before the control and state the concrete result, such as moving to the next question or switching the page language after a selection.
Purpose
Advance warning makes unusual control behavior predictable and reduces disorientation when the setting itself triggers navigation or a major contextual change.
Sources and evidence
Sources are shown with the role they play in this guide. Historical or style-sensitive claims are kept within the evidence boundary described above.
- G13: Describing what will happen before a change of context (opens in a new tab)World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) · WCAG technique guidance for warning users in advance when changing a form control will change context.