Accessibility Guide: Descriptive Links

✅ What Are Descriptive Links?

Descriptive links use meaningful text instead of vague terms like “click here” or “read more.” For example:

• ❌ Bad: Click here

• ✅ Good: Download the Canvas Student App for iOS

🧠 Why Descriptive Links Improve Accessibility

1. Screen Reader Clarity

   • Screen readers often read out just the links on a page.

   • Generic links like “click here” or “this link” make no sense out of context.

   • Descriptive links help users know exactly what to expect.

2. Improved Navigation

   • Users with cognitive disabilities or those scanning quickly can navigate more easily with clearly labeled links.

   • Descriptive links act like signposts in digital content.

3. Better for Keyboard Users

   • Those using the Tab key to move through links can quickly find the link they need based on description — without needing to backtrack to surrounding content.

✅ How to Make Descriptive Links in Canvas

1. Highlight the meaningful text

   • Example: Highlight “Canvas Instructor Guide”.

2. Click the link icon in the Rich Content Editor.

3. Paste the URL and confirm.

4. Avoid phrases like:

   • "Click here"

   • "More info"

   • "This link"

5. Instead, use the destination or action as the link text:

   • ✅ "View the Canvas Accessibility Guide"

   • ✅ "Watch the Course Settings Tutorial"

🛠 Bonus Tips

• Keep it concise but informative.

• If linking to a file, include the file type:
  ✅ Download the syllabus (PDF)