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Accessible Links and Buttons

Choose controls according to purpose and make their name, destination and behavior understandable.

Veyra Admin

2 min read

  • Article
  • 2 minutes read
  • Reviewed August 4, 2026

Links and buttons have different purposes.

A link navigates to another resource or location. A button performs an action in the current interface.

Using the correct element provides built-in keyboard and assistive-technology behavior.

Descriptive Link Text

Link text should make sense in context.

Prefer:

  • Download the accessibility checklist.
  • Read the WordPress forms guide.
  • View account settings.

Avoid repeated “click here” or “learn more” labels when the destination is unclear.

Opening a new tab can interrupt users and remove expected back-button behavior.

Use it only when justified. If the behavior is important or unexpected, communicate it clearly.

Buttons for Actions

Use buttons for:

  • Submitting a form.
  • Opening a menu.
  • Expanding a panel.
  • Starting playback.
  • Confirming a change.

A button label should describe the action, such as “Save settings” rather than “Submit” when the context can be clearer.

States and Names

Toggle buttons and expandable controls need state information such as aria-expanded or aria-pressed when appropriate.

The accessible name should remain stable enough to understand while the state changes.

Icon-Only Controls

An icon without text needs an accessible name.

Do not rely on a tooltip that appears only on hover. The control should remain understandable to keyboard and screen-reader users.

Decorative icons should be hidden from assistive technology.

Focus and Target Size

Links and buttons need visible focus and enough space to operate.

Avoid placing several small controls tightly together. Test touch, keyboard and zoomed layouts.

Common WordPress Problems

Review:

  • Navigation menu toggles.
  • Search buttons.
  • social icons.
  • carousels.
  • “read more” links.
  • block toolbar output.
  • plugin-generated action links.
  • cards where the entire region is clickable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a button navigate to another page?

Navigation should normally use a link, even when styled visually as a button.

The accessible name must identify each destination, through visible text or additional context.

Continue Learning

Previous: [Accessible Headings and Page Structure](/resources/wordpress-manual/accessibility/accessible-headings-page-structure/)

Next: [Alternative Text for Images](/resources/wordpress-manual/accessibility/alternative-text-images/)