Descriptive text
What to do
Use text that clearly describes the purpose of a hyperlink.
Why it matters
Descriptive text helps users distinguish between links and decide whether to follow them.
Examples
Better descriptive text
Learn more about accessibility at Appalachian.
Poor descriptive text
To learn more about accessibility at Appalachian, click here.
Writing for Web Accessibility
Web Accessibility Initiative writing for web accessibility article detailing how to make link text meaningful.
New window
What to do
Links that open new windows or tabs should be limited to situations where opening them in the same window disrupts the process (i.e. if the link is for context-specific information, such as help instructions for a form). If a link opens in a new window or tab, advance warning should be provided.
Why it matters
Making websites behave in unpredictable ways can be disorienting, especially for users with visual disabilities.
Examples
Better new window links
A link to help on a form opens in a new window to prevent the loss of any data that has already been entered on the form.
Poor new window links
A link to a related resource on a web page opens in a new window.