Link Text

Link text is the visible, clickable text in a hyperlink. It typically appears blue and underlined in most web browsers. 

Good link text is descriptive and gives users an idea of what to expect when they click the link. For example, if a link says, "Learn more about accessibility," the link text clearly indicates that clicking it will provide additional information on that topic.

Link text is crucial for accessibility for several reasons:

• Context and clarity: Descriptive link text helps users understand where the link will take them. For people using screen readers, clear link text provides context, allowing them to navigate content effectively.
• Navigation: Users with disabilities often navigate using keyboard shortcuts or assistive technologies. Descriptive link text makes it easier for them to skim through links and find relevant information quickly.
• Avoiding redundancy: Generic link text like "click here" or "read more" doesn't convey any information about the destination. This can be confusing for users who rely on screen readers, as they may not know the purpose of the link without additional context.
• Usability: Accessible link text enhances the overall user experience for everyone, not just those with disabilities, by providing clear, actionable information.

Meaningful or descriptive link text should give information about the link's destination.

• Start with a keyword.
• Ask yourself: “What will the user get when they click this link?”
• Don't use URLs for link text.
• Include (PDF) or (Word) in document links.
• Avoid using non-descriptive link text: phrases that don't clearly indicate where the links leads, often using generic words like "click here," "read more" or "learn more."

Repeated link text is when the same link text is used multiple times on a page, such as "read more." Repeated link text can be confusing for users, especially those using assistive technologies like screen readers.

• Remember that link text alone should convey the function and purpose of the link.
• If the link destinations are different, write link text that clearly distinguishes them.
• Do not link to two different URLs using the same words on the same page.
• Do  not link to the same URL using different words on the same page.