The basic idea
Make each link understandable on its own
Write link text so someone can understand its destination or action from the link words alone. A screen reader user may review links in a list without hearing the nearby paragraph first. Someone using a keyboard may move from link to link with Tab. A specific label helps visitors know what to expect before they open it.
Examples for a law firm website
Replace vague labels with useful clues
These are sample labels for sample destinations. Use a clearer label only when it accurately describes where the link goes or what it does.
- Vague label
- “Click here”
- Clearer alternative
- “Read our guide to preparing for an initial consultation”
The new label names both the resource and its topic, so visitors do not need the surrounding sentence to guess what they will find.
- Vague label
- “Read more”
- Clearer alternative
- “Learn about our family law services”
The clearer wording identifies the practice area. It also distinguishes this link from other “Read more” links on the page.
- Vague label
- “Click here to get started”
- Clearer alternative
- “Request an initial consultation about a business dispute”
The label explains the action and what the request concerns, so a visitor can decide whether it is the right next step.
- Vague label
- “Download”
- Clearer alternative
- “Download the new-client intake checklist (PDF)”
The clearer label names the file and its format, helping visitors know what they will open or save.
- Vague label
- “More information here”
- Clearer alternative
- “Read our article about resolving a lease dispute”
The improved wording describes the linked content and topic rather than relying on “here.”
A quick review
A practical link checklist
- Review the links on each important page, including menus, buttons, and links in the footer.
- Read each link label on its own, without the surrounding sentence. Can you tell where it goes or what it does?
- Replace vague or repeated labels such as “click here,” “read more,” and “download” with wording that describes the actual destination or action.
- Check that every label matches its real destination. Name a document or file type when that helps set expectations.
- Try the page with a keyboard: press Tab to move forward and Shift+Tab to move back. Check that each focused link has a clear label and visible focus, then press Enter to confirm it goes where expected.