WCAG Guideline 3.2.2: On Input Explained
Estimated read time: 5–6 minutes
Guideline 3: Understandable
The Understandable principle ensures that web content behaves in ways users expect, especially when interacting with forms and controls.
Guideline 3.2: Predictable
Guideline 3.2 focuses on making web pages behave in ways users expect, especially when interacting with forms, links, and controls.
What Is Guideline 3.2.2 On Input?
"Changing the setting of any user interface component does not automatically cause a change of context unless the user has been advised of the behavior before using the component."
Guideline 3.2.2 requires that changes in input (like selecting an option or entering text) do not trigger unexpected actions such as navigation or content changes, unless users are warned in advance.
- Prevents confusion for users, especially those using assistive technology
- Ensures users are in control of their experience
- Applies to all form controls, dropdowns, and interactive widgets
For more, see Equally AI: WCAG 3.2.2 On Input .
Why Does It Matter?
- Keyboard and Screen Reader Users: May be disoriented by unexpected changes after input
- All Users: Predictable behavior builds trust and usability
- Accessibility: Users need to know what will happen before it happens
For more, see W3C’s guidance on On Input .
What Needs to Avoid Changes on Input?
- All form controls (dropdowns, checkboxes, radio buttons, text fields)
- Avoid triggering navigation, popups, or content changes on input alone
- If a change is necessary, provide a clear warning or instruction
How to Meet Guideline 3.2.2
- Require explicit user action (e.g., clicking a submit button) to trigger changes
- Warn users if a control will cause a change of context on input
- Test all form controls for unexpected behavior
- Review custom widgets for input-triggered changes
For more, see the W3C's On Input Techniques .
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Triggering navigation or popups when a user changes a form control
- Failing to warn users about input-triggered changes
- Not testing with keyboard and assistive technology
Differences Between A, AA, and AAA for Guideline 3.2.2 in WCAG 2.2
- Level A: Requires no change of context on input unless users are warned.
- Level AA: No additional requirements for 3.2.2.
- Level AAA: No additional requirements for 3.2.2.
For more, see the W3C’s official documentation for 3.2.2 On Input .
Quick Checklist
- No navigation or popups triggered by input alone
- All changes require explicit user action or clear warning
- Tested with keyboard and assistive technology
- Custom widgets reviewed for input behavior
Summary
Guideline 3.2.2 ensures that users are in control of what happens when they interact with your forms and controls. Avoid surprises—let users know what to expect.
Predictability and control are key—make sure your forms and controls behave as users expect!