What feature allows users to select between alternatives on a webpage?

The feature that allows users to select between alternatives on a webpage is radio buttons. Radio buttons enable users to choose one option from a set of predefined choices. Each option is represented by a circular button, and when a user clicks on one radio button, any previously selected button in the same group is automatically deselected. This design ensures that only one choice can be active at any given time, making it ideal for situations where a single selection is required.

Radio buttons are commonly used in forms and surveys where it’s essential for users to indicate one preference, such as selecting a payment method or answering a multiple-choice question. The clarity and functionality of radio buttons contribute to a better user experience, as they visually signify that only one option can be selected among the available choices.

In contrast, check boxes allow users to make multiple selections, while drop-down menus can present several options at once but may require an extra click to reveal those options. Text fields enable users to enter freeform text rather than selecting from predetermined alternatives. These differences highlight why radio buttons are the appropriate choice for scenarios requiring a single selection from multiple alternatives.