What Is Caret Browsing and How Does It Work?
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If you've ever found yourself wishing for an easier way to navigate through text on a webpage, you might want to try caret browsing. It’s a useful feature that allows you to move the cursor around a webpage as though it were a word processor, making reading and selecting text easier, especially for those who prefer keyboard shortcuts.
In this post, we'll dive into what caret browsing is, how it works, and why it could be the perfect tool to enhance your web experience.
What Is Caret Browsing?
Caret browsing, also known as caret navigation, is an accessibility feature that allows users to navigate web pages using only the keyboard. Instead of using a mouse or touchpad to interact with elements on a web page, users can use the text cursor, also known as the caret, to move around and perform various actions.
With this feature, users can easily select text, open links, and scroll through content without the need for a mouse or touchpad.
How to Turn on Caret Browsing

In most browsers, caret browsing can be activated by pressing the function key F7.
Use this keyboard shortcuts for caret browsing activation:
- Toggle the F7 key: This is the most common shortcut key for activating this feature in many web browsers.
- Using on-screen keyboard: If your keyboard does not have the F7 key or it does not work, you can use the on-screen keyboard provided by the operating system interface to activate this feature.
How to Use Caret Browsing
Once you have enabled caret browsing, you can start navigating web pages using the keyboard and text cursor.
1. Selecting Text Using Caret Browsing

With caret browsing enabled, you can use the arrow keys to navigate to the starting point of the text you want to select. Once you reach the desired location, press and hold the Shift key on your keyboard.
Next, use the arrow keys to extend the selection to the desired endpoint. Finally, release the Shift key to complete the selection.
2. Copying and Pasting Text in Caret Mode

Caret browsing also allows you to copy and paste text using only the keyboard.
Once you have selected the desired text using the keyboard and text cursor, you can copy it to the clipboard by pressing the Ctrl+C key combination. To paste the copied text, navigate to the desired location and press the Ctrl+V key combination.
How to Turn Off Caret Browsing

In most web browsers, caret browsing can be disabled by toggling the F7 key on your keyboard.
Caret browsing is just one of the many features that enhance the way we interact with the web. As we explore different types of browsers, it's clear that each offers unique features tailored to different browsing types and user preferences.
Whether you're a power user looking for precise control over text selection or someone who simply wants a more efficient browsing experience, caret browsing could be the tool you've been searching for.
Give it a try in your browser today and discover a new way to navigate the web with ease!
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