Hyperlinks are a core part of digital content, guiding readers to related pages, resources, or downloadable files. But not all links are equally accessible.

Screen reader users, keyboard-only users, and people with low vision often navigate pages by jumping from link to link. Links that are vague, repetitive, or visually indistinct can create confusion and barriers.

This page outlines key best practices for creating accessible hyperlinks, with practical examples you can apply in websites, course materials, or digital documents.

Use Descriptive Link Text

Link text should clearly describe what users will find when they click. Avoid generic phrases like:

• “Click here”
• “Read more”
• “Learn more”

Good link text provides context and can stand alone.

Examples:

• ❌ Bad: Click here for the policy
• ✅ Good: For more information, visit the Tufts Digital Accessibility Policy
• ❌ Bad: Learn more
• ✅ Good: Learn more in the Captioning Best Practices video

Tip: Descriptive links help screen reader users understand your content out of context, such as when they pull up a list of all links on a page.

Keep Link Text Concise and Logical

Aim for links that are short but meaningful, usually 3–8 words. Avoid wrapping long sentences into a hyperlink, and keep punctuation simple.

Example:

• Original: To see the training schedule, click here for the Tufts Learning Center.
• Accessible version: You will find the Digital Accessibility course schedule in the Tufts Learning Center

Tip: Users should be able to understand the link independently of the surrounding sentence.

Indicate File Types and When Links Open in New Windows

If a link opens a downloadable file (PDF, Word document) or a new browser window, make that clear in the link text. This helps users anticipate what will happen and avoids confusion.

Examples:

• For more information, download the Tufts Digital Accessibility Policy (PDF)
• You'll find all of our classes in the Tufts Learning Center (opens in a new window)

Tip: Only link the descriptive portion, not the entire sentence.

Ensure Visual and Keyboard Accessibility

Accessible links should be:

• Visually distinct: Use underline or sufficient contrast, not color alone.
• Keyboard navigable: Users must be able to tab to each link and see a visible focus indicator.

Tip: Test your page by tabbing through links with your keyboard and ensuring each link’s destination is clear.

Check Your Links

Even with these best practices, a quick review is essential:

• Use free digital accessibility tools (e.g., WAVE, Siteimprove) to flag missing or repeated link text and color contrast issues.
• Perform a manual review to ensure links make sense out of context and accurately describe their destination.

Tip: Automated tools are helpful but cannot judge the clarity or meaning of your links — that requires human review.