Always use descriptive links
Links, no matter what kind, should always be able to be understood if read alone. Many screen readers have the option to read only the links on the page as a way of scanning a page. Do not use “Read More” or “Click Here” as your link. Use descriptive links text so the user understands what they are clicking on. Also, make sure to follow these guidelines when labeling button links.
Example: “Read more about our history” or “Click here for office hours”.
Styling
Never change the color or styling of links. The website should be programmed to make all links have a specific style of their own (best practice is to style links with a unique color and underlined), making them easily identifiable to people who depend on these styling features to find the links.
Link labels for documents
Always add document extensions to link text, such as (pdf) or (doc), when linking to a document. This informs the user that they are linking to a downloadable file.
Example: “Download our holiday events brochure (pdf)”
Keep visitors on your site
Always check the “Open link in new tab” if linking outside of your site.
- Highlight the content and select the chain link icon in your toolbar.
- Click the gear icon to open a pop-up box.
- Enter the URL and check the “Open link in new tab” box.
- Click the “Add Link” button at the bottom of the pop-up box.
Learn more about adding links to content.