Descriptive Links in Canvas
Descriptive links tell students exactly where a link will take them, using clear, meaningful text instead of full URLs or vague phrases like “click here” and "read more." This helps all students and those using screen readers to navigate your course and content more easily. This guide explains how to create links with descriptive words in the Canvas Rich Content Editor (RCE).
Step 1: Type Descriptive Words
Anywhere you find the Canvas Rich Content Editor (RCE), type three to eight meaningful words people will click. Be specific describing the link's destination. Avoid adding links to an entire sentence. For this guide, we use "web accessibility guidelines" as the example. After typing, select the text you just typed with your cursor to highlight it.
Step 2: Choose a Link Type
Locate the Link icon in the toolbar that looks like a chain linked together. Alternatively, you can click the Insert option to select Link, then External Link or Course Link.
- External Link is used for content outside your Canvas course - this guide demonstrates adding an external URL.
- Course Link is used for any area within your Canvas course.
Step 3: Add the URL
In the Link field, paste the full URL of the destination webpage. Make sure the address starts with "http://" or "https://". You can also edit the Text the link is attached to if needed. Then, click Done to save the link details.
Step 4: Save Your Changes
After having the URL address added, the linked text changes colors and appears underlined. Finish any other edits you need to make, then save the area of Canvas you are working in.
Step 5: Check the Link
Review your descriptive text link to ensure it looks and functions as intended. As web content frequently changes, there is also a validate links in content tool in your course Settings to help you ensure links are still working correctly each term.
Descriptive Links in Canvas Video
Descriptive Link FAQ
How do descriptive links help someone with disabilities?
Descriptive links ensure that the purpose of each link is clear when read by assistive technology. For users with visual impairments who rely on screen readers, descriptive links provide useful context to inform their decision to click them. Screen readers often read out a list of links on a page, and non-descriptive links like "click here" or "read more" provide no context, making it difficult for these users to navigate effectively. Full URLs pasted in the text are read as is, which is overwhelming to listen to.
Do descriptive links help people without disabilities?
Yes. Descriptive links provide clear information about the destination or content behind the link, reducing ambiguity and helping users understand what to expect when they click on it. When users encounter non-descriptive links, they often have to read surrounding text to understand the link's context, which increases cognitive load. Descriptive links reduce this need, allowing users to make quicker decisions and navigate more efficiently.