Search suggestion
A search suggestion offers a possible query while someone types. Selection, submission and the later results list need to work together clearly.
A search suggestion is an offered completion or alternative to an entered search query. It typically appears during typing. It helps formulate the query; it is not evidence that a later results list contains a suitable product.
Distinguish selection from searching
In a fictional shop, someone types a product term and sees suggested queries. The interface needs to make clear whether selecting one only fills the input or runs the search immediately. A product link in the same area needs a distinguishable presentation.
W3C describes keyboard interaction for comboboxes. For your implementation, check reaching, selecting from and closing the suggestion list with the keyboard. Give the field a clear label. A test should also cover an empty list and input with no matching suggestion; a missing recommendation must not unintentionally block ordinary search.
Sources
Related terms
- Product catalogueA product catalogue organises range information for search and selection. Catalogue entry, inventory availability and channel publication are separate data.
- Focus orderFocus order determines the route through focusable elements. It should preserve meaning and operability, including during dynamic changes.
- Keyboard trapA keyboard trap leaves keyboard users stuck within a region. Deliberately containing focus in a dialog needs a keyboard-operable exit.
- Skip linkA skip link bypasses repeated navigation and leads to the main content. The destination must also work for subsequent keyboard navigation.
- Accessible nameAn accessible name labels a control for assistive technology. It should explain the action and agree with the visible text.
- Interactive prototypeAn interactive prototype responds to selected actions. It can reveal a path through an interface without implementing the real processing behind it.
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