Digital Accessibility: Link Text

Overview

Link text is the clickable portion of a hyperlink that provides context about the destination of the link. Writing clear, meaningful link text improves digital accessibility for people using screen readers and enhances the experience for all users. Avoiding vague phrases like "click here" or long, confusing URLs ensures that links are easier to understand and navigate.

Video Training

Video Link: https://mediaspace.mines.edu/media/Digital+Accessibility%3A+Link+Text/1_rx0zqruy?st=0

Step-By-Step Guide

Understanding Why Meaningful Link Text Matters

Poorly formatted link text can make navigation difficult, especially for users relying on screen readers. Common issues include:

  • Generic link text (e.g., "click here," "read more") provides no context.
  • Long URLs can be difficult to read and interpret.
  • Identical link text on the same page can confuse users when multiple links say "click here" but lead to different destinations.

By writing meaningful link text, users can quickly understand where a link will take them without needing additional context.

Adding Meaningful Link Text in Email

  1. Highlight the text you want to turn into a hyperlink.
  2. Click the Insert Hyperlink button in your email editor.
  3. In the hyperlink field, paste or type in the URL.
  4. Click OK to apply the link.

Before:

After:

  • "Read the IT Knowledge Base article for more details."
  • "Watch this short video on digital accessibility using Alt text."

This approach ensures that users, including those using screen readers, can easily understand the purpose of each link.

Formatting Accessible Link Text in Canvas

  1. Highlight the relevant text within your Canvas assignment or page.
  2. Click the Links button at the top of the editor.
  3. Select External Link (if linking to a webpage outside Canvas).
  4. Enter the URL in the provided field.
  5. Click Done to apply the link.

Using descriptive text instead of pasting long URLs improves readability and accessibility for all users.

Improving Link Text in WordPress

  1. Log in to WordPress and open the page you want to edit.
  2. Locate the text that will serve as the link.
  3. Highlight the text and click the Insert/Edit Link button.
  4. Type in or paste the URL into the link field.
  5. Click Apply to save changes.

Before:

  • "Click here"

After:

  • "Sign up for the workshop now."

This approach ensures that users know exactly where they will be directed when clicking the link.

Best Practices for Writing Link Text

  • Avoid vague phrases like "click here" or "read more."
  • Use short, descriptive phrases (typically two to five words).
  • Only use raw URLs when they are short and meaningful (e.g., "mines.edu/accessibility").
  • Use the title of the content when linking to a document, video, or webpage.
  • Ensure every link is unique and distinct from other links on the same page.

Support and Resources

If you have questions or need assistance, Mines IT is here to help. Call us at 303-278-HELP (4357) or visit us at the IT Service Desk in CTLM 156.

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