Definitions

Linked text are the words in a link.  The text describes what the visitor will find at the next page.

Content Requirements

• Use the default link colors and behaviors.
• Text should be descriptive and accurate. Link text and page title of destination page should be the same or closely related, even in banners.
• Visitors should understand what they’ll get before they click on a link (for example, report, testimony, brochure, etc.).
• Always link to a relevant content page (not an organization home page) whether the link is internal or external. 
  • Note: Links outside of epa.gov must meet the requirements set out by the External Site Links procedure.
• Add links below or beside the content instead of embedding them in content. Links in a list are preferable to links embedded in a paragraph because they are easier for people to scan on the screen. 
• If it's not a web page, indicate the type of file/format that is behind the link (video or audio, document download, etc.).
• If you are developing a site for kids, students, and/or educators, consult the criteria set by EPA's Environmental Education Web Workgroup:
  • EPA educational site linking criteria

Examples:

No: They are a major water pollution concern for the approximately 772 cities in the U.S. that have combined sewer systems
Yes: They are a major water pollution concern for the approximately 772 cities in the U.S. that have combined sewer systems.  See: Combined Sewer Overflow Demographics.

No: Read information on new chemicals and on programs for existing chemicals under TSCA.
Yes: Read information on new chemicals and on programs for existing chemicals under TSCA:

• New Chemicals
• Existing Chemicals

For Banner Text Overlays:

No: Read More
Yes: Read more about Light-Duty Regulations

About this Standard

Effective date: 01/01/2004
Date Approved: 10/08/2014
Web Council review by: 01/15/2018 (or earlier if deemed necessary by the Web Council)