Descriptive Hyplerlinks

Using descriptive hyperlinks in a document helps users understand where a link will take them, improving navigation and accessibility for everyone, including those using screen readers.

Whooo does this help?

Jordan, a student with attention difficulties, benefits from descriptive hyperlinks, helping them stay focused and understand the purpose of each link.
Riley has a cognitive impairment that affects their ability to process information quickly and accurately including dense text, jargon, and lengthy sentences.

The Direct Route

When we skim the text for information, hyperlinks can be one of those items that jump out. Descriptive hyperlinks provide clarity about the link's destination, reducing cognitive load. Links can be quickly identified if they lead to relevant content without deciphering vague link labels. Phrases to avoid:"click here", "more", and "image"

Examples

Good to know:

Screen readers will read out an entire URL which can be disruptive to a blind person when listening to a body of text. It’s important to embed the hyperlink into the description.

Descriptive Hyplerlinks

Whooo does this help?

The Direct Route

Good to know:

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