Tabindex description is wrong

https://www.w3.org/WAI/ARIA/apg/patterns/dialog-modal/

There is a wrong description.

It should be "tabindex=0" NOT "tabindex=-1“ to focus a static element.

[put comment here…]
When a dialog opens, focus moves to an element contained in the dialog. Generally, focus is initially set on the first focusable element. However, the most appropriate focus placement will depend on the nature and size of the content. Examples include:
If the dialog content includes semantic structures, such as lists, tables, or multiple paragraphs, that need to be perceived in order to easily understand the content, i.e., if the content would be difficult to understand when announced as a single unbroken string, then it is advisable to add tabindex="-1" to a static element at the start of the content and initially focus that element. This makes it easier for assistive technology users to read the content by navigating the semantic structures. Additionally, it is advisable to omit applying aria-describedby to the dialog container in this scenario.
If content is large enough that focusing the first interactive element could cause the beginning of content to scroll out of view, it is advisable to add tabindex="-1" to a static element at the top of the dialog, such as the dialog title or first paragraph, and initially focus that element.
If a dialog contains the final step in a process that is not easily reversible, such as deleting data or completing a financial transaction, it may be advisable to set focus on the least destructive action, especially if undoing the action is difficult or impossible. The Alert Dialog Pattern <https://www.w3.org/WAI/ARIA/apg/patterns/alertdialog/> is often employed in such circumstances.

Received on Monday, 15 December 2025 13:55:51 UTC