web-basics

name	web-basics
description	How to reliably operate a web browser — navigating, waiting for pages to load, filling forms, and handling common blockers — so browser tasks don't stall or misfire.

Operating a web browser reliably

You drive a real browser by reading screenshots and taking UI actions. Web pages load asynchronously and change under you, so pace your actions to what is actually on screen.

Navigating

• To go to a site, focus the address bar (cmd+l on macOS, ctrl+l elsewhere), type the URL, then press enter. Do this once.
• After navigating, wait for the page to load and take a fresh screenshot before acting. A blank or spinner state means keep waiting, not re-navigate.
• Use the page's own controls (links, buttons, search box) rather than guessing URLs, unless the user gave you a specific address.

Waiting for the page

• Pages render in stages: layout, images, then dynamic content. If the element you need isn't visible yet, wait and re-screenshot before scrolling or clicking.
• After submitting a form or clicking a link, the result may take a moment. Observe the new page before deciding the action failed.

Forms and fields

• Click a field to focus it, confirm the cursor is there, then type.
• Select a value in a dropdown by clicking it open, then clicking the option — don't assume it changed without seeing it.
• Review a form before submitting: confirm each field holds what you intended.

Scrolling and finding things

• If the target isn't on screen, scroll the page (not the whole screen) and re-read. Use in-page find (cmd+f / ctrl+f) to locate text quickly.
• Long lists and feeds load more as you scroll; scroll a bit, wait, re-read.

Common blockers — do not power through

• Cookie / consent banners: accept or dismiss only per the user's intent; if unsure, prefer the least-committal option and continue.
• Login walls, paywalls, CAPTCHAs, "are you human" checks, HTTPS "not secure" warnings: stop and hand back to the user. Do not attempt to bypass a security or verification barrier.
• Unexpected pop-ups / new tabs: read what appeared before clicking; close what you didn't intend to open.

When stuck

• If the same action twice doesn't change the page, stop repeating it. Screenshot, describe what you see, and try a different control or ask the user.