What is accessible link text?
Accessible link text should be meaningful, descriptive, and unique. Link text should make sense with or without context, and give the user a clear idea of where the link is going to take them.
“HERE”, “Click HERE”, and “THIS LINK” are examples of meaningless, non-contextual text. Someone who uses a screen reader will have a difficult time determining where the link goes to. Always try to select the meaningful, intuitive language to embed your links in.
Why do links need to be accessible?
Users of screen readers can navigate digital content by skipping from link to link, so each one needs to be clear and unique. Imagine attempting to identify an important link for an assignment or project, and hearing the words “click here” repeated. Additionally, some users will visually scan the content to look for relevant links.
Embedding takes a long URL and makes it easier to read and view. Here is an example of how embedding a link improves readability:
-
INCORRECT:
- Learn about UMD Hockey at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Minnesota_Duluth_Bulldogs_women%27s_ice_hockey
- CORRECT:
- Learn about UMD Hockey
How do I quickly add links to my documents?
Tip! In most applications, you can use common keyboard shortcuts to make it easier to embed links.
- Windows:
- Select the text that will be embedded.
- Press “Control + K” on your keyboard
- Paste the URL.
- Mac:
- Select the text that will be embedded.
- Press “Command + K” on your keyboard
- Paste the URL.
I learned so much. How can I learn more?
- Check out the Accessible U website for more information on digital accessibility
- Enroll in the Digital Accessibility Badging Program.
- Check out the archive of the Digital Accessibility Tips of the Month on the AATT website.
- The Accessible Academic Technology Team is a group of staff, students, & faculty who are working to enhance and develop UMD’s commitment to accessibility and universal design. You can join our group by inquiring with [email protected]