Link Target Definitions
This is a technique for testing:
WCAG 2.0: Guideline 2.4.4 Link Purpose (In Context): The purpose of each link can be determined from the link text alone or from the link text together with its programmatically determined link context, except where the purpose of the link would be ambiguous to users in general. (Level A) How to Meet 2.4.4 | Understanding 2.4.4
4.1.2 Name, Role, Value: For all user interface components (including but not limited to: form elements, links and components generated by scripts), the name and role can be programmatically determined; states, properties, and values that can be set by the user can be programmatically set; and notification of changes to these items is available to user agents, including assistive technologies. (Level A) How to Meet 4.1.2 | Understanding 4.1.2
3.2.4 Consistent Identification: Components that have the same functionality within a set of Web pages are identified consistently. (Level AA) How to Meet 3.2.4 | Understanding 3.2.4
Overview
The W3C Links advice is extensive and as can be seen from the number of highlighted words in the text above where the consortium have offered a myriad of explanations.
The Firefox Accessibility Extension states the number of links and the type. Too many links and those that are poorly explained can cause extra work and frustration (not just for screen reader users). It may help to provide a site map or an index that lists all the interior links for those who want to find their way about if the menus are convoluted. A map and breadcrumb trail can further help navigation. An internal search tool is another feature that is very useful.
Method
By using the Webaim WAVE toolbar 'Text Only view' you will see "only the underlying text of the page. Information that is commonly read by screen readers (such as alternative text for images) will be presented. The visual styling of the page is removed." This is also possible using WebbIE text browser which works with Internet Explorer, so you can flip between the graphic and the text view as well as test links and add text to forms etc. The is a list view of links that is helpful for screen reader users and can help you make decisions as to whether your links make sense in isolation.
Advice
- Webaim: Links and Hypertext.
- About.com: Don't Write Click Here for Your Links.
- Webcredible: Why is link text so important?
- NewSunSEO: Writing Good Link Texts Will Increase Your Search Engine Rankings.
