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Implementing Accessibility Skills: Descriptive Links

Home / Teaching and Learning / Implementing Accessibility Skills: Descriptive Links
Want your course content to work better for everyone? Learn how small changes—like writing clearer, more descriptive links—can make a big difference in accessibility and usability. It’s easier than you think, and you’re probably halfway there already.

Learn How to Make Your Links Work for Everyone

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Hyperlinks are everywhere—syllabi, Canvas modules, announcements, PDFs, and more. But not all linksarecreated equal when it comes to accessibility. By making a few thoughtful edits, you can transform confusing or cryptic links into meaningful signposts that help all learners navigate your course materials with confidence.

This Supporting Accessible and Inclusive Learning (SAIL) page breaks down what descriptive hyperlink text is, why it matters, and how to apply it using simple strategies and tools. Whether you’re posting a reading, linking to an event, or citing a source, the tips below will help ensure your links are clear, inclusive, and aligned with federal accessibility standards.

Learn how to use descriptive hyperlink text.

Use meaningful link text instead of generic phrases like “click here.” Descriptive links clearly state where the link goes, such as  instead of a raw URL like https://net3.umkc.edu/intapps/onlineworkshops/  This helps all users — especially those using screen readers — navigate with ease and confidence.

Users of screen readers often jump between links using the tab key. Generic text like “here” or “more” doesn’t provide enough context when read out of order. Descriptive links ensure the meaning is clear on its own, saving users time and reducing confusion. Long URLs can also be hard to interpret and even harder to say aloud using assistive technology.

Major citation styles such as APA and MLA allow for flexibility in digital spaces:

  • APA Style allows descriptive link text in online-only materials.

  • MLA encourages clarity and usefulness over pasting full URLs.

  • If a document is meant to be printed, you can use shortened URLs or DOIs — and it’s okay to disable hyperlinks for clean formatting.

Descriptive links improve accessibility without compromising academic integrity.

  • Link Purpose (Link Only) (W3C Web Accessibility Initiative)

  • WebAIM: Links and Hypertext
    https://webaim.org/techniques/hypertext/

  • ADA National Network: Links [Video]

  • Deque University: Links

  • DiPeri, Dawn Lee. Graphic Design for Course Creators. Pressbooks.

When you're focused on content, it’s easy to paste links in as-is. Before you publish, take a moment to revise any visible URLs or vague phrases like “click here” into clear, descriptive link text. It’s a small change that makes a big impact for accessibility and professionalism.