7.5: Descriptive Hyperlinks

Essential

Hyperlink text is descriptive and makes sense when out of context (avoid using "click here").

Criterion Overview

Hyperlinks should clearly describe their destination or the action they perform. Rather than using generic phrases such as click here, more, or read this, link text should tell students exactly what resource they are accessing or what action they are taking.

Many students navigate online courses using assistive technologies such as JAWS, NVDA, or VoiceOver. These screen readers can generate a list of hyperlinks without reading the surrounding page content. When links are descriptive, students can quickly identify the resource they need. Generic link text provides little context and makes navigation more difficult.

Descriptive hyperlinks also improve the learning experience for all students by making course content easier to scan, understand, and navigate. Well-written links help students quickly locate resources, assignments, support services, and instructional materials without unnecessary searching.

Why It Matters

Clear hyperlink text improves both accessibility and usability. Students should be able to understand where a link will take them before selecting it. Descriptive links reduce confusion, improve navigation, and support students using screen readers, keyboard navigation, mobile devices, and other assistive technologies.

Meaningful hyperlinks also contribute to better course organization. Instead of interrupting the flow of reading with vague instructions, descriptive links naturally guide students through learning activities and instructional resources.

What This Looks Like

A well-designed course typically includes:

  • Hyperlinks that clearly describe the destination or action.
  • Link text that makes sense without relying on surrounding sentences.
  • Downloadable files labeled with the file type when appropriate (e.g., PDF, Word, PowerPoint).
  • Consistent link naming throughout the course.
  • Links that support intuitive navigation and are easy to identify.

Students understand where each hyperlink leads before selecting it.

Design Tips

Ask yourself: Could a student understand where every link leads without reading the surrounding text?

✔ Describe the destination or action rather than using generic phrases such as click here or more.

✔ Use meaningful nouns and action verbs that clearly communicate the purpose of the link.

✔ Label downloadable files with their file type (e.g., PDF, Word, PowerPoint).

✔ Keep hyperlink text concise while providing enough information to understand its purpose.

✔ Periodically check for broken or outdated links.

✔ Use consistent hyperlink naming throughout the course.

✔ Consider how hyperlinks will sound when read aloud by JAWS, NVDA, or VoiceOver.

Examples

Select each tab to view course enhancement examples.

Building

  • Replace "Click here" with descriptive link text.
  • Use the title of the destination page as the hyperlink.
  • Label downloadable files with the appropriate file type.
  • Ensure each hyperlink accurately reflects its destination.

Strengthening

  • Write hyperlinks using meaningful action verbs, such as Download the Course Syllabus, Submit Assignment 3, or Visit the Writing Center.
  • Review course pages to ensure hyperlinks remain accurate and current.
  • Use consistent naming conventions for similar resources throughout the course.
  • Remove or update broken or outdated hyperlinks.
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Transforming

  • Design course navigation using descriptive hyperlinks that naturally guide students through the learning process.
  • Organize instructional resources using consistent and meaningful link language across the entire course.
  • Periodically review hyperlinks for accessibility, usability, and accuracy as part of regular course maintenance.
  • Model effective hyperlink practices in student-created digital assignments and presentations.