Accessi-Bites: To Link or Not to Link
Descriptive and functional links are vital for all users, particularly those using assistive technology. This “bite” will explain how to write clear link text and where to use text versus spelling out the full URL.
Context matters
The use case of the material you are creating affects how you’ll add links to your document, presentation, or other content.
- Creating for digital? Use text hyperlinks with descriptive titles.
- Creating for print or presentation? Spell out the URL and shorten it when possible.
Text hyperlinks
Use text hyperlinks when you are creating a digital-only material. Avoid phrases like “click here,” “here,” “more,” “read more,” and “info.” Instead, use words to explain the destination - there is no maximum or minimum word count for good link text. Write like you normally would, and then add links by highlighting text.
- Don’t: Click here to learn about open-air artworks on the University of Minnesota Twin Cities campus.
- Do: Learn more about open-air artworks on the University of Minnesota Twin Cities campus.
By using descriptive link text, we both set a clear expectation for what the link directs to, and reduce the cognitive load required to decipher it.
Full URLs
It may seem like common sense, but people interacting with a physical piece of paper or watching a presentation aren’t able to magically click a hyperlink. In these cases, it is best to spell out the full URL so folks can follow it.
- Don’t: Include http://, https://, or www. in URLs. Generally, they aren’t needed and add to visual clutter.
- Do: Test the URL you are linking to as you write it to be sure it works.
Consider using the University’s Z-Link URL Shortener when you need to spell out a URL, as it is often easier for people to remember and type. Make sure to use full words and hyphens to make the Z-Link easy to type and remember.
- It will be easier for your audience to remember z.umn.edu/open-air-artwork than twin-cities.umn.edu/news-events/feast-eyes-and-intellect.