Docs Editor Model/Schema Cases Scenarios Tips Playground Coverage

Case ce-0036-arrow-keys-move-by-word · Scenario scenario-caret-movement-granularity

Arrow keys move by word instead of character when modifier is not pressed

OS: Windows 11 Device: Desktop or Laptop Any Browser: Chrome 120.0 Keyboard: US Status: draft
arrow-keys caret navigation chrome
Edit on GitHub

Phenomenon

In Chrome on Windows, arrow keys may move the caret by word instead of by character, even when no modifier keys are pressed. This makes precise cursor positioning difficult.

Reproduction example

  1. Create a contenteditable div.
  2. Type some text with multiple words.
  3. Use the left and right arrow keys to move the caret.
  4. Observe the caret movement granularity.

Observed behavior

  • In Chrome on Windows, arrow keys may jump by word instead of character.
  • The behavior is inconsistent and may depend on text content or formatting.
  • Precise character-by-character navigation is difficult.

Expected behavior

  • Arrow keys should move the caret one character at a time by default.
  • Word-level movement should only occur with modifier keys (e.g., Ctrl+Arrow).
  • The behavior should be consistent and predictable.
Before
Hello| World Test
Text, cursor (|) after 'Hello'
→
After Right Arrow (Bug)
Hello World| Test
Right arrow moves by word (expected: one character at a time)
vs
✅ Expected
Hello |World Test
Expected: Right arrow moves one character at a time

Playground for this case

Use the reported environment as a reference and record what happens in your environment while interacting with the editable area.

Reported environment
OS: Windows 11
Device: Desktop or Laptop Any
Browser: Chrome 120.0
Keyboard: US
Your environment
Sample HTML:
Event log
Use this log together with the case description when filing or updating an issue.
0 events
Interact with the editable area to see events here.

Comments & Discussion

Have questions, suggestions, or want to share your experience? Join the discussion below.