Links

Are all links concise, descriptive, and meaningful when read out of context?

Why it’s important

  • Pareta is blind and uses a screen reader to navigate the web. She often uses the tab key to scan a page by reading out the text links only.

While screen readers can read a full page to a user, screen reader users may prefer to instead listen to a list of links. In that case, a screen reader may only read the link text and not the surrounding text.

It’s essential for link text to make sense without the surrounding sentences or content. The link text alone should convey the function and purpose of the link.

Next steps

  1. Does the voice and tone of your link text match the rest of the content for a more continuous user experience? Both readers and screen reader users will have a better experience if all text reflects the same voice and tone guidelines.
  2. Link text should be as specific as possible. Avoid link text such as "Click Here", "More", and "Read More". These kinds of links can be confusing when a screen reader reads them out of context.
  3. Consider link text like "Download the full review". Descriptive links provide all users more information about an action they may undertake.
  4. Use unique link text where possible. Speech recognition software users may have a bad experience with duplicated link text.
  5. Include information about what a link leads to; this is especially important for folks who use mobile devices. If you’re linking to a PDF, say so.
  6. Open links in the same window to prevent people from becoming disoriented. Particularly users who have difficulty perceiving visual content.

References

Resources

World Content Accessibility Guidelines

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