Make clearing a search reset the intended state

What to change

Ask the supplier to define what Clear does to the input, suggestions and result set, then make those states agree.

A worked example

Illustrative example

Clearing the site search removes the query and returns the agreed initial search state, with no leftover suggestion inviting the visitor into an unrelated result.

How to check the result

Accept when clearing is complete, predictable and leaves focus ready for the next search without an unexplained mixture of old and new content.

A mistake to avoid

An icon inside the input may be mistaken for closing the panel unless its purpose and accessible name are clear.

Your action checklist

Use these checks to prepare a discussion with your team or supplier. Tick a check when you have recorded the decision or evidence, rather than when a feature has simply been promised.

Decisions to recordRun a search, activate Clear and inspect the query field, result heading and suggestions. Check whether the resulting state matches the control's stated purpose.Use keyboard and screen reader navigation to reach the clear control. Its name should distinguish clearing the query from closing the entire search panel.Type a new query after clearing. Ask the supplier to verify that any delayed old response cannot reappear and restore the previous result set.

Evidence, open questions and decisionsNext action and responsible role

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