WCAG 2.0 · Level A · Operable
WCAG 2.4.4 — Link Purpose (In Context)
The purpose of each link should be clear from its text (or its immediate context).
WCAG 2.4.4 at a glance
Level A · Principle: Operable · Added in WCAG 2.0. Level A is the minimum — failing it blocks some users entirely.
What it means
The purpose of each link should be clear from its text (or its immediate context).
Who it helps
Screen-reader users who navigate by a list of links.
Common failures
- “Click here” / “Read more” repeated everywhere
- Raw URLs as link text
- Image links with no alt
How to meet WCAG 2.4.4
- Write descriptive link text
- Give image links an accessible name
How to test it
Partly automatable (empty/duplicate links); vague text needs review.