service-manual 1 linked patterns checked
GOV.UK Design System Tabs
Documents tabs for related sections of content shown one at a time, and cautions against using tabs for page navigation, sequential reading, or comparing information across hidden panels.
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What this source can teach
Use this source to study a complete public-service task and the guidance that supports its implementation.
- Start with the original. Open the source and find the guidance or example relevant to your task.
- Trace the connection. Use the claim notes below to see how this site applies the source to specific patterns.
- Check the setting. Compare the source's platform, people, and constraints with your own decision.
Pattern Decisions This Source Supports
| Pattern | Supported decision | Required contract | Claim note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tabs | Choose tabs for sibling sections at the same hierarchy level that share one surrounding page context. | Changing tabs updates the visible panel without losing the surrounding page context. | GOV.UK supports tabs for related content shown one section at a time and warns against page navigation, sequential reading, and cross-panel comparison. |
Comparisons supported by this source
- Side navigation vs global navigation vs tabs
Existing tabs source supports tabs as shallow sibling sections rather than hierarchy navigation.
- Tabs vs segmented control vs pagination
GOV.UK explains tabs as related sections shown one at a time and cautions against page navigation, sequential content, and comparison-heavy use.
Evidence Role
This source is treated as service-manual evidence. Its value comes from the specific claims and setting described above.
Publisher: GOV.UK Design System. Last checked: .