Enter key in nested list creates item at same level in Chrome

Phenomenon

When pressing Enter in a nested list item in Chrome, a new list item is created at the same nesting level. This behavior is generally correct, but may differ from user expectations or other browsers.

Reproduction example

1. Create a nested list: <ul><li>Item 1<ul><li>Nested item</li></ul></li></ul>
2. Place cursor inside “Nested item”
3. Press Enter

Observed behavior

• A new list item is created at the same nesting level (inside the nested <ul>)
• The list structure is maintained
• If cursor is at the end, new item is created after
• If cursor is in the middle, text is split

Expected behavior

• New list item should be created at the same nesting level
• List structure should be maintained
• Behavior should be consistent across browsers

Browser Comparison

• Chrome/Edge: Creates item at same level (this case)
• Firefox: May create item or paragraph, behavior inconsistent
• Safari: May create unexpected nesting levels

Notes and possible direction for workarounds

• This behavior is generally acceptable
• May need to handle edge cases where list structure breaks
• Consider intercepting Enter to ensure consistent behavior
• Normalize list structure after operations