Links are the primary way users navigate digital content. For many users, especially those using screen readers, links are the most important interactive elements on a page.
The “Why”
- Context for Screen Readers: Screen reader users often use a shortcut to pull up a “Link List” (a menu showing every link on the page without the surrounding text). If your links all say “Click here,” the list is useless.
- Predictability: Descriptive links tell the user exactly what will happen when they click (e.g., will it open a website or download a PDF?).
- Scanning for All Users: Most people do not read every word on a webpage; they scan for blue, underlined text to find their next destination. Clear link text makes this process faster.
Examples: Before vs. After
The “Click Here” Problem
- Bad: To see the updated campus map, [click here].
- Good: Review the [updated HCU campus map] for parking details.
- The Difference: In the “Good” version, the link itself contains the destination. Even without the rest of the sentence, the user knows exactly where they are going.
The “Raw URL” Problem
- Bad: Download the syllabus at /files/2026/syllabi/biol101-final-v2.pdf.
- Good: Download the [BIOL 101 Course Syllabus (PDF)].
- The Difference: Raw URLs are a nightmare for screen readers, which will read every single character out loud (“H-T-T-P-S-colon-slash-slash…”). The “Good” version is concise and identifies the file type (PDF).
The “Print vs. Digital” Balance
- Bad: [Visit our Admissions page]. (This is useless if the document is printed on paper).
- Good: Visit our [Admissions page] (HC.edu/admissions/).
- The Difference: This “Hybrid” approach works for both digital users (who can click) and print users (who can see the URL).
How-To: Strategies for Success
- Be Specific: Instead of “Read more,” use “Read more about our [Financial Aid options].”
- Avoid “Vague Verbs”: Steer clear of link text like “Click here,” “Link,” “More,” or “Go.”
- Identify File Types: If a link triggers a download, mention the file type in the link text, such as (PDF), (Word), or (Excel).
- Keep it Concise: Don’t link an entire paragraph. Aim for 3 to 8 words for the link text.
- Use Unique Link Text: If you have two links going to different places, don’t give them the same name. If they go to the same place, give them the same name.
- Check for “Dead Links”: Periodically check your content to ensure links aren’t broken, as “404 Errors” are an accessibility barrier.
Apply This to Your Work
Ready to format your links? See the specific technical steps for your preferred platform: