multitab

Multitab refers to a user interface pattern in which multiple documents or views are accessible within a single window by means of a row of tabs. Each tab represents an independent content area, and users switch among tabs by clicking or using keyboard shortcuts. Tabs can support closing, reloading, and rearranging to aid navigation.

The multitab concept emerged from tabbed document interfaces in software and was popularized by tabbed web browsers in the 1990s. Today, multitab is widely used across applications, including web browsers, integrated development environments, text editors, email clients, image editors, spreadsheet programs, and terminal emulators. In many implementations, tabs can be detached to form separate windows, and some systems offer split views to display multiple tabs side by side.

Design considerations include tab labeling, overflow handling when there are many tabs, and defaults such as which tab opens first. Features often include pinning, reordering, closing individual or all tabs, and session restoration. Accessibility concerns include keyboard navigation, visible focus, and screen reader compatibility. Performance can be affected by high tab counts or resource-heavy content.

Advantages of multitab include faster switching between documents, reduced window clutter, and easier cross-reference. Drawbacks include limited screen space, tab overload, inconsistent tab behavior across platforms, and potential distraction from many open tabs. Some users prefer alternatives such as split panes or multiple windows for complex workflows.

See also: tabbed interface, tab bar, tabbed document interface, split view, terminal multiplexer.