Links promise navigation
An anchor with an href should lead somewhere. Link text such as “Read the accessibility guide” is more useful than “Click here” because it still makes sense when read out of context.
Media should fit the content
Images can communicate information, reinforce text, or decorate a layout. Informative images need a concise alternative; decorative images can use an empty alternative so they do not create noise.
A familiar example
Adding a product illustration
- Set intrinsic width and height so the page reserves space.
- Write alternative text only if the illustration adds information.
- Place a separate link nearby if the user must navigate; do not make an unexplained picture the only control.
What to remember
- Link text should describe the destination.
- Alternative text depends on an image's purpose.
- Reserve media space to keep the page stable while it loads.