A hyperlink is a simple, yet powerful tool used on the internet which allows users to click through to other webpages or documents. Hyperlinks appear as text or images which allow users to click through or tap on them in order to navigate to a particular webpage or document. Typically, users will find hyperlinks embedded within a webpage, email, post, forum, etc.
What Does a Hyperlink Do?
Hyperlinks are commonly used to make navigation easier, and often used to take viewers to other webpages or documents on the same domain. Clicking or tapping on the link will take the user directly to the target page without them having to manually search for the desired page. In addition, hyperlinks can also be used to direct users to external websites or documents. For example, clicking on a link embedded in a blog post can direct the viewer to another blog post with related content.
Hyperlinks are also used to facilitate making purchases and signing up for services. For example, a button on a webpage to purchase a product or service is typically a hyperlink button. By clicking on the button, users will be taken directly to a page prompting payment or information.
How is a Hyperlink Created?
Creating a hyperlink is a relatively simple process. First, the URL or address of the desired webpage or document needs to be accessed. This URL can be found by right-clicking the link and selecting "Copy Link". The link can then be transformed into a clickable link in various ways, depending on the context in which it is being used.
For example, if the hyperlink is going to be used on a website, the web author/designer would have to code the link into the webpage, (using HTML code, i.e. < a href="#">). An easy way to do this is by using a text editor or an online HTML editor, where the URL can be inserted directly into the code so the link appears on the website.
In emails or online forums, the hyperlink can be transformed in much the same way by typing in the link, encasing it in angle brackets, and making it appear as standard text. (i.e. < Link >). Alternatively, the link can be pasted directly into the text, and then encased in angle brackets so it appears as normal text on the page.
What are the General Guidelines and Best Practices for Hyperlink Usage?
Using hyperlinks correctly is essential for the success of any website or online content.
• Choose the type of link carefully: Different types of links are used for different types of content. For example, a PDF document should use a 'Download' link, and email addresses should be designed as a 'Mailto' link.
• Automate as much as possible: Use automated systems, such as a plug-in or script, in order to quickly and easily create hyperlinks.
• Always include a descriptive text: The descriptive text should accurately describe the content on the linked page.
• Include a target="_blank" attribute: This will ensure the linked page opens in a new window.
• Choose link colours and designs: Choose link colours and designs so they stand out from the surrounding text, and are easily distinguishable from passive text.
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• Include ALT texts: ALT texts are used as a substitute for the text in case the link fails to load, so they should be included.
• Be mindful of the location of the hyperlinks: Hyperlinks should be placed in areas that are easily accessible in order to make navigation easier.
• Be aware of 'orphan' links: Make sure to protect your content from 'orphan' links, which are links that are attached to text or content, but cannot be accessed by users.
• Monitor and update your links regularly: Links should be updated regularly in order to make sure they are working correctly and that all new content is also linked.
• Pay attention to SEO: Hyperlinks are essential for SEO, as search engines view this type of content as valuable.
• Monitor engagement metrics: Monitor engagement metrics in order to get an understanding of how effective your hyperlinks are. If engagement drops off, it can indicate that some hyperlinks are failing to lead to the desired content.Instant Messaging (IM) is a type of online communication that allows users to send and receive text and audio messages in real-time. It is a quick and easy way for people to connect and communicate without having to pick up the phone or go through the more formal process of emailing.
IM offers a lot of advantages for both personal and professional communication. It allows people to have more personal conversations that are informal in nature. These discussions can take place over a period of time and are not restricted to one-off conversations like emails. They also offer a way for many people to actually converse with one another in a group chat, which can be incredibly valuable in a business environment.
IM also allows users to quickly access their communications wherever they are. Many instant messaging applications allow users to log in and view their conversations whether they are at home or on the go. This makes it easier to stay connected and respond to communications in a timely manner.
Before beginning to use IM, it is important to consider some general guidelines and best practices. For instance, it is essential to respect the privacy of your conversation partners. Do not share private conversations with anyone outside of your conversations, including family and friends. It is also important to maintain proper etiquette and avoid the use of profanity.
It is also important to consider the security of your communication. Ensure that your instant messaging app is secure by using strong passwords and keeping them safe. It is also beneficial to use an encryption service to further protect your messages from being intercepted.
When using IM, make sure to communicate in a clear and concise manner. Try to avoid sending long messages that require a lot of effort to read, as this can become tedious for other users. Additionally, reply to conversations in a timely manner, as leaving a message unchecked too long can make the conversation awkward and cause it to end prematurely.
When writing messages, it is also important to be mindful of the tone of your conversations. Try to use a tone that is polite, informative and helpful, and never become confrontational with other users. It is also wise to avoid making assumptions or radical statements, as this may make other users feel uncomfortable.
Finally, make sure to utilise the multiple features that IM offers to ensure that you have the clearest and most productive conversations. Features such as file sharing, video and audio calls can help to increase productivity and make discussions more interesting.
IM is a powerful tool for both personal and professional conversations, and following the guidelines provided should help you make the most of your Instant Messaging experience.
