Should CSS Override Default Browser Styles?

Should you use CSS to override default browser styles? The answer isn't black and white. CSS offers extensive customization, allowing you to alter virtually any default element's appearance. However, the extent of these alterations is a matter of ongoing debate.

Consider these examples: checkboxes, radio buttons, select menus, and anchor links all have default styles determined by the operating system. While CSS allows for complete style overhauls, many argue that maintaining these defaults enhances accessibility and usability. Similarly, scrollbars, buttons, and even cursors are frequently styled, but the level of customization varies widely among developers.

The key question becomes: where do you draw the line? This is highly subjective. Many developers style buttons and links, sometimes only subtly adjusting the default colors. Styling form elements is also common, but some prefer to leave them untouched. Opinions on cursor customization range from complete avoidance to the use of custom images.

Ultimately, CSS is a design tool, and every rule modifies some default. There's no universally accepted "banned" CSS property. The focus should be on making informed styling choices that prioritize usability and accessibility. Even seemingly innocuous properties like background-color can be misused, creating inaccessible areas. The crucial factor isn't the CSS itself, but the design decisions behind its implementation.

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