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Adding links / URLs
Tips:
- DON’T just paste the a URL as is
- example: www.example.com/events/schedule/really-long-event-name-alskdfnoweinalsk156dfnow7ein
- Why? Try scanning to quickly read the example link above. Some It’s long, some of it is gibberish; , and only a small portion of the link has useful information about what might be on that page. Links like this are not very readable or scannable, which is frustrating for readers who want to get important information as quickly as possible. Links can also be really long, making this effect even worseThey are especially frustrating for users who rely on screen readers to access information on the internet, an important accessibility tool.
- DON’T use generic link text that gives no context
- examples: Click here; Learn more
- Why? Generic link text is an accessibility issue. Someone who is relying on a screen reader to find info or someone who is in a hurry and skims the page will be frustrated by “click here” which gives them no context for what a link does.
- DO use a short phrase that describes the action the link takes or where it goes
- examples: Learn more about the fall festival; Read more about Jane Goodall; Register for the conference
- Why? These are easy to scan and help set the user expectation for what a link will do. This will reduce user frustration and confusion.
- How do I know if my link text is descriptive? When writing the link text, ask yourself “Would someone who only reads the link text know where it goes or know what action to expect?” If the answer is yes, you are on the right track!
DO test your links and make sure they work as expected
- Why? Ever clicked on a link that takes you to a page with an error? So frustrating! Or maybe you clicked a link and it took you to the wrong place? Ugh!
- To prevent this experience on your blog, be sure to preview your post or go to your published post and test your links by clicking on each one. (yes, each one!) Then you’ll be able to see if you have the right link added in each spot and if each link actually works.
- Bonus Tip: Have someone else on your team test all your links, too!
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