How can I set an active/current state for link blocks in Webflow when clicked on? I want to design a website similar to one I found, where the list state changes on scroll. Can someone assist me with this? Thank you.

TL;DR
  • Structure your page with uniquely ID’d sections and link blocks that anchor to those IDs.  
  • Style active links using Webflow’s native "Current" state, applied when a linked section is in view.  
  • For dynamic updates on scroll, use scroll interactions to toggle active classes on links as each section enters view.  
  • Preview and fine-tune spacing, offsets, and interactions to ensure accurate active state behavior.

You're looking to create an active or current state for link blocks that updates when a section is clicked or scrolled into view—similar to a scroll-based navigation menu.

​

Here’s how to implement this behavior in Webflow:

​

---

​

1. Use Section-Based Scroll Navigation

​

  • Structure each main part of your page as a distinct section (Section elements in Webflow).
  • Assign each section a unique ID (e.g., #about, #services, #contact).
  • Set up a nav menu or list of link blocks where each links to one of these section IDs using /#section-id format.

​

---

​

2. Set the Webflow Native "Current" State

​

  • Webflow automatically applies a "Current" class to a link when its target section is in view via anchor linking.
  • For this to work:
  • Links must point to internal element IDs (e.g., link to #about).
  • Target sections must be on the same page and must have an ID exactly matching the link's target.

​

You can style the "Current" state by selecting your link, navigating to the States dropdown, and styling the Current version.

​

---

​

3. Enable Smooth Scroll Into View (Optional)

​

  • Webflow has built-in smooth scrolling when using on-page anchor links.
  • To ensure links scroll properly:
  • Use a fixed/sticky navbar to avoid scroll-offset issues.
  • If needed, use custom scroll offset with code (like JavaScript scroll-margin or custom script).

​

---

​

4. Simulate Active Links on Scroll (for Advanced “List Change” Behavior)

​

If you're looking for more dynamic behavior (e.g., highlighting links as you scroll through page sections), use Webflow Interactions:

​

  • Add a scroll interaction on each section.
  • When a section scrolls into view:
  • Apply a class (like "active") to the associated nav link.
  • Remove that class from other links.
  • Use Element Trigger → Scroll into View, configured to run a custom interaction.

​

Alternatively, use custom JavaScript (only if needed) to add/remove classes based on scroll position—but Webflow's native tools cover most use cases.

​

---

​

5. Preview and Adjust

​

  • Test scrolling through the page in Preview mode.
  • Check that the "Current" state or custom active class is being correctly triggered based on scroll position or link clicks.
  • Adjust section heights, padding, and anchor offsets to get accurate detection.

​

---

​

Summary

​

To replicate list-style active links that change on click or scroll:

  • Use on-page anchor links with section IDs.
  • Leverage Webflow’s native "Current" state for auto-highlighting.
  • For scroll-based activation, use scroll interactions to manage custom active class states for each link.

​

Let me know if you'd like help setting up the scroll interaction method step by step.

Rate this answer

Other Webflow Questions