Link Highlighting

There should be a contrast ratio of at least 3:1 between the link text and surrounding text, as well as a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 between both the link text and the regular text and the background.

If it’s not possible to reach an adequate contrast ratio, then text links should be underlined. Underlined links should still have visual cues for the hover and focus states.

Links that Open a New Tab or Window

If you are going to open a link in a new window then you should let the user know that. By including that information within the link, you can be certain that screen readers will have access to that information.

In 2019, 46,366,452 passengers passed through Newark Liberty International Airport (opens new window).

Links to Files

If you are linking to non-HTML resources, like PDFs, Word documents, ZIP files, etc.,  then you should let the user know what type of file the link will open. By including that information within the link, you can be certain that screen readers will have access to that information. Describing the file type to mobile users is especially important, since the file will download to the phone and the user may not have an installed app that can open it.

Take a look at our latest brochure (PDF) for more information on our company and services.

Buttons

Buttons should be easily identifiable, and have visual cues for hover/focus and clicked states.