Descriptive Web Links - WCAG
Descriptive Web Links - WCAG
Embedded Files
Use Clear and Descriptive Links
Use Clear and Descriptive Links
Clear and descriptive links tell users exactly where a link will take them or what action it will perform.
Screen readers pull up a list of all links on a page. Links that say “click here” or “read more” are meaningless without context.
Why this matters:
Why this matters:
Screen reader users
Keyboard-only users
Anyone scanning quickly for information
They also build trust by setting clear expectations about what will happen when a link is selected.
Best practices for Clear & Descriptive Links
Best practices for Clear & Descriptive Links
Clearly describe the destination or action
Keep links short and specific.
Make sense on their own, even without surrounding text
Use meaningful words, not full URLs.
A helpful guiding question: Would this link still make sense if it were read out loud by itself? If the answer is no, the link likely needs to be revised.
How Should You Write Clear and Descriptive Links (Best Practices):
How Should You Write Clear and Descriptive Links (Best Practices):
Use specific, meaningful language
Keep links short and focused
Describe where the link goes or what it does
Avoid vague phrases like:
“Click here”
“Read more”
“Learn more”
Avoid using full URLs as link text when possible
In Context:
If you’d like to learn more, you can [explore the WCAG guidelines] or see the latest [digital accessibility offerings and updates from OPL]. You can also read more about the [POUR principles] to understand the foundations of accessible design.
You can also review these additional resource: HyperText Techniques for more information about best practices.
The Complex Description for the Descriptive LInks INfographic
The Complex Description for the Descriptive LInks INfographic
This educational graphic explains why and how to use descriptive link text rather than generic phrases.
Best Practices for Writing Links
Best Practices for Writing Links
Describe the Destination or Action: Tell users exactly where they are going or what will happen.
Use Meaningful Words, Not URLs: Replace long, messy web addresses with clear, human-readable text (e.g., "Read Our Accessibility Report").
Descriptive vs. Generic: Use "Register for our Webinar" instead of a generic "Click here."
Why Descriptive Links Matter
Why Descriptive Links Matter
Supports Screen Reader Users: Screen readers generate link lists that require context to be useful.
Efficiency for All Users: Helps keyboard-only users and people scanning the page find information quickly.
Builds User Trust: Clear links set accurate expectations and reduce user frustration.
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