Full Keyboard Access lets you navigate Mac interface controls using the keyboard. It can be useful when pointing is difficult, but it works best when you practise recognising the focus highlight and learn how to reach command help.

Begin with a harmless task

Open System Settings, Accessibility, Keyboard and enable Full Keyboard Access. Apple's current layout groups Keyboard under the mobility or motor options. You can adjust the focus highlight so it is easy to see against your usual applications.

Using the default commands, Tab moves to the next interface element, Shift-Tab moves backwards and Space activates the focused item. Arrow keys navigate within groups such as lists. If shortcuts have been customised, inspect the configured commands rather than assuming the defaults still apply.

Practise in a test document or a settings panel where you can cancel changes. Say or note which control has focus before activating it. This prevents a fast sequence of keystrokes from confirming a dialogue you have not read.

Learn the recovery path

Apple provides command help through Tab-H and a complete command list in the Full Keyboard Access settings. Learn that route early. Keep a brief note of the few commands needed for your normal task rather than trying to memorise every shortcut at once.

If you only need Tab to move between controls, the simpler Keyboard navigation option may be sufficient. Full Keyboard Access provides a broader command set and can interact differently with applications that already use many keyboard shortcuts.

Test opening a file, switching to another control, saving a disposable change and leaving a dialogue without applying it. Then rehearse your real application workflow. Keep a working pointing device available during setup if that is possible.

If an application's controls remain inaccessible, record the specific control and application version. That is more actionable than concluding that the entire keyboard-navigation feature does not work.

Source: Apple's Full Keyboard Access guide.

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