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.
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.
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.
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.
This educational graphic explains why and how to use descriptive link text rather than generic phrases.
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."
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.