Linktext Checker
Find links without accessible names and non-specific link texts such as “more” or “here”. This helps screen reader users, SEO teams and conversion sites alike.
Evaluating non-specific links in the actual context
From “More” to a Recognizable Goal
In a list of five services, each “More” link leads to a different detail page. “More about technical SEO consulting” conveys the goal already when flying over. Document theme and format help with downloads, such as “audit checklist as PDF”. Add file size or language if this information makes it easier to decide before opening.
Warning does not automatically mean WCAG violation
WCAG 2.4.4 allows the link purpose to be accessed from the link text together with a programmatically determinable context. A short link can therefore be understandable if its assignment is technically and substantively clear. When you hit, check the calculated link name as well as paragraph, list entry or table cell. A title attribute alone is not a reliable solution for all operating modes. In the case of linked images, their text alternative is also part of the examination; a decorative icon must not replace the understandable link text.
Additional documentation: W3C: Link Purpose in Context
Link texts and link names
Focused view for WCAG 2.4.4.
Analyze accessibility and other test areas together: up to 20 URLs for free. Full website audit for one-off 99 € net or SEO Suite from 19 € net monthly.
Why Clear Link Texts Are Important
Many users jump directly through the link list of a page via screen reader. Link texts that can be understood as independently as possible facilitate orientation; in the case of short link texts, the associated context must be clearly determinable.
SEO and conversion also benefit: clear links help search engines understand internal linking and reduce uncertainty before clicking.
Typical hits
- Empty links, icon links or teasers without accessible names.
- “More”, “here” or “further” without meaningful context.
- Recurring template links that create the same barrier on many URLs.
- Unclear CTAs in lead, contact and checkout routes.
Good link texts explain the goal
Link texts such as “here”, “more” or “read on” are difficult to use if they are read out of context. Significant link texts improve orientation, internal linking and often also the snippet and navigation quality of a page.
Prioritisation in practice
- Replace Repeated Generic Link Text in Teasers and Tables
- Clearly name download, contact and tool links
- Formulate several links to the same goal consistently
Next meaningful check
For large hubs, the combination with the Internal Link Checker is worthwhile to evaluate link destination and link text together.
When Link Text Issues Are Critical
Especially important are link texts in tables, teaser lists, navigations, downloads and repeated call-to-actions. If ten links are only called “more”, users and search engines can distinguish the goals worse.
Good link texts don’t have to be long. Crucially, the goal and expectation become clear: Start the tool, download PDF, request an audit or open guides.