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.