The issue of linking is one of the most important, and perhaps most controversial issues existing in the world of hypertext today. The ability to link is what separates hypertext from generic, vanilla text.

At the same time, links can be the bane of hypertext if you misuse them. Overusing links can be incredibly destructive. It's important to use links in the right amount. Individual links should be concise and should explain what page they lead to. Also, users always have expectations when they go to a page, and it is important to remember this when designing pages, and when linking to them.


Anticipation and Expectation

When a user decides to follow a link on a page, they are placing a great deal of faith in the author. They trust that the link is active, that it is useful, and that they will enjoy it. The author has several obligations: to make sure that links work, to fully (but concisely) explain them, and to ensure that they are useful.

For some examples click here.

Proper Use of Links

It is important to use links correctly. Once you have decided to place a link within your text, several things must be considered. Exactly what phrase are you going to link with? Is a single word enough, or should you link to the entire sentence? It is also important to regulate what you link to in the first place. Is any given link truly worth it? Although there is no clear right way (or wrong way) to link, some examples may be helpful.

Please send any comments to mitchc2@rpi.edu
This page written by Colin Mitchell