Skip to main content

Hyperlinks

  • Links should always be to a URL beginning with “https” (not http) when possible. (Double check the link after you change it to be sure it works.)  
  • Use the default hyperlink color (instead of coloring links blue).  
  • 1-3 words per hyperlinked text (5 word max, if possible).  
  • URL should not be spelled out (unless addressing a known problem)  
  • Link text should describe what the user will see when they click on it.
  • If the link references a page name, make sure the page title matches.
  • Provide enough context so the user knows why they should click.  
  • Do NOT say “click here”, “here”, or paste the URL itself.  
  • Do not hyperlink the word “page.” Ex: Student Services or Student Services page, NOT Student Services page. 
  • Do not hyperlink punctuation. Ex: bed bug factsheet, NOT bed bug factsheet. 
  • Make links open in the same window, NOT a separate window/tab (even for external links). This is easier to navigate with a screen reader and a mobile device. 
  • If a link will take the user away from our website, mention that fact in the contextual sentence with the link (or in parentheses afterward). Ex: For more information, check out University of California’s bed bug factsheet.  
  • Instead of hyperlinking a heading, hyperlink text below the heading.  
  • Check for broken links and fix them promptly.