What This Rule Checks
Links on a webpage should provide clear descriptions of their purpose. When two or more links have identical text or attributes, they must lead to the same destination. This helps users, especially those with screen readers, to understand the purpose of each link and distinguish between them. Confusing or redundant links can frustrate users and make navigation difficult.
Who Is Affected
This issue primarily affects: Blind users, who rely entirely on screen readers or braille displays to navigate and interact with content; Deafblind users, who rely on braille displays and cannot access visual or auditory content.
Why This Matters
Screen reader users often pull up a list of all links on a page. Links with identical text but different destinations are indistinguishable in this list. This violates WCAG 2.4.9 (Link Purpose – Link Only), a AAA criterion.
How to Fix
To ensure link clarity, follow these guidelines:
Use Descriptive Text: Ensure each link’s text or description is unique and clearly conveys the purpose or destination of the link. Avoid using vague or repetitive phrases like “Click here.”
Use aria-label or aria-labelledby: If two links use the same text but have different destinations, use the aria-label or aria-labelledby attributes to provide a unique, descriptive label for each link.
Avoid Duplicate Links with Identical Purpose: Links that share the same purpose and text should lead to the same destination to avoid confusing the user.
Code Examples
<!-- Same link text going to different pages -->
<a href="/2024-report">Annual Report</a>
...
<a href="/2025-report">Annual Report</a>
Copy
<!-- Distinct link text for different destinations -->
<a href="/2024-report">2024 Annual Report</a>
...
<a href="/2025-report">2025 Annual Report</a>
Copy
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using identical “Read more” or “Details” text for links to different pages.
- Not considering that screen reader users may browse links out of context.
- Relying on surrounding text to distinguish links when the link text itself is identical.
Tip: Keyboard navigation is essential for users who cannot use a mouse. Ensure all interactive elements are reachable via the Tab key and operable via Enter or Space. Test focus visibility and focus order on every page.
Related WCAG Criteria
- 2.4.9: Link Purpose (Link Only)