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( Operable / WCAG 2.4.4, 4.1.2 )

Link must have discernible text

This check maps to Link Purpose (In Context); Name, Role, Value. Use the guidance below to confirm the issue, understand who it affects and ship a fix.

Serious Level A WCAG 2.4.4, 4.1.2 — Link Purpose (In Context); Name, Role, Value

What’s wrong

A link has no discernible text — it is empty, or it only contains an image without alt text, with no aria-label or aria-labelledby.

Why it matters

Links must have discernible text so screen reader users know where they go. Without a name, assistive technology announces only “link” with no destination. Icon-only links and empty anchor tags are common causes.

How to fix it

Add text content inside the <a> tag, an aria-label attribute, or an aria-labelledby reference. Avoid empty links or links that only contain an image without alt text.

Before
<a href="/profile"></a>

<a href="/twitter">
  <img src="/icons/twitter.svg">
</a>
After
<a href="/profile">Your profile</a>

<a href="/twitter" aria-label="Follow us on Twitter">
  <img src="/icons/twitter.svg" alt="">
</a>

<a href="/twitter">
  <img src="/icons/twitter.svg" alt="Follow us on Twitter">
</a>

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