When to use different kinds of links
- Applies to:
- All versions
Open a link as an F1 contextual help window
Create F1 contextual help links when the user needs more information while completing a task. This keeps users focused and engaged on the page. F1 links open the content in an overlay, so the user can view necessary information without leaving the page they are working through.
Example: A link to a dictionary article to clarify new terms in the current article.
External links, attachments, and PDFs cannot be displayed as a contextual help window.
Open a link as a new window
If the linked article is lengthy or may be needed as a reference, open the link as a new window.
Example: The user is reading about how to set something up before using it, and there is a procedural article they must follow.
External links always open in a new window.
Open a link in the same window
Open a link in the same window when the user is ready to move on to another topic.
Example: Links in the "Next steps" or "Additional resources" section at the end of an article.
What to use as linked text
Do not use "Click here" or the page URL or page title as linked text. "Click here" provides no explanation, and changes in page titles could cause a perceived disconnect between the link and the linked content. Instead, build the link naturally into a sentence or describe the information.