accessible-tooltip-implementation

Implement keyboard-accessible tooltips with ARIA associations and WCAG-aligned behavior.

2|Updated Mar 21, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/coastdigitalgroup/coastai-skills --skill accessible-tooltip-implementation
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent▼
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: accessible-tooltip-implementation
Source: https://github.com/coastdigitalgroup/coastai-skills/tree/main/website-development/accessible-tooltip-implementation
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/coastdigitalgroup/coastai-skills --skill accessible-tooltip-implementation

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes references (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

Tooltips are often inaccessible, failing to announce information to screen readers or requiring mouse-only interaction. This Skill provides a framework to build non-interactive overlays that are accessible via keyboard and assistive technologies, with proper ARIA associations and WCAG-aligned behavior.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Link triggers to descriptive tooltip content using aria-describedby and role="tooltip".
  • Ensure keyboard focus, hover persistence, and Escape-based dismissal across web apps.
  • Provide guidelines and patterns for positioning, overflow handling, and responsive behavior in real-world interfaces.

Quick Start

Trigger the tooltip with aria-describedby linked to a role="tooltip" element and provide focus and hover handling per WCAG.

Frequently Asked Questions about accessible-tooltip-implementation

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I make tooltips accessible for screen readers and keyboard navigation?▼

To make tooltips accessible, link triggers to descriptive content using aria-describedby and role="tooltip", while ensuring keyboard focus, hover persistence, and Escape-based dismissal per WCAG guidance.

Why does my ARIA tooltip fail to announce information to assistive technologies?▼

ARIA tooltips often fail when missing role="tooltip" or proper aria-describedby linkage, preventing screen readers from associating and announcing the descriptive content attached to the trigger.

What is the best way to implement keyboard accessible tooltips in frontend web interfaces?▼

The best way to implement keyboard accessible tooltips is using ARIA associations with role="tooltip" and aria-describedby, combined with focus visibility, hover persistence, and safe dismissal behavior.

Do I need WCAG compliance to implement non-intrusive tooltip hints?▼

WCAG compliance is necessary for accessible tooltips, requiring role="tooltip", aria-describedby linkage, focus visibility, hover persistence, and safe Escape-based dismissal for assistive technologies.

How does aria-describedby link tooltip content to its trigger element?▼

aria-describedby links a trigger element to tooltip content by referencing the tooltip's ID, allowing screen readers to announce the descriptive information when the trigger receives focus.

Can I use role tooltip for non-interactive overlays that appear on hover or focus?▼

Yes, role="tooltip" is designed for non-interactive overlays that appear on hover or focus, providing accessible hints that persist while interacting and support safe dismissal.