Content publishing
Audit Link Text and Destination Clarity
Published by whatisADA / Grow Wild Agency · Updated
Purpose and preparation
Review whether readers can determine where links lead from their text and available context. Include repeated cards, document downloads and icon-only links. Record the actual destination before rewriting labels.
A practical example
A resource list repeats “Read more” beneath several articles and uses an unnamed icon for PDF downloads.
How to check it
- Collect the links in a representative page or template and inspect their text, context and destinations. Identify identical labels leading to different purposes.
- Rewrite unclear labels or improve their programmatically associated context. Give image-only links an appropriate accessible name and identify useful file information where needed.
- Review the links in context and through a screen reader's link navigation. Confirm that revised names remain concise and match visible wording used for speech input.
What can be missed
Making every link excessively long can create new friction. Keep the label focused on destination or action, with supporting detail in a useful adjacent context.
Record your test
Use this worksheet to record what you actually checked. Notes stay on this device when you choose Save; they are not sent to us. Avoid personal or confidential information on shared devices.
These are your observations, not automated results or a conformance certificate. A complete evaluation needs appropriate scope, supported technologies, all applicable criteria and relevant page states.
Primary sources and scope
This is independent implementation guidance with original examples. The linked standard contains the full definitions, exceptions and conformance requirements. A criterion or checklist alone does not establish legal applicability or whole-site conformance.