Official website

of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

Components

Link

A link takes users to another page, to a different part of the same page, or to view a document.

Overview

A link takes users to another page, website, or part of the same page. You can use links inside a sentence or on their own.

The link text should tell users what to expect when they click. Keep it short, clear, and specific.

Variants

Standalone link

A standalone link appears on its own. These may be used after a descriptive sentence or as part of a list. You can include an icon with a standalone link.

Inline link

An inline link appears within running text, such as within a sentence. Do not use icons in inline links.

Usage

When to use

Use a link to send users to:
  • Another PA.gov page.
  • An external website.
  • A specific section on the same page.
  • Read a PDF file. Be sure to include [PDF] at the end of the link text.
  • Draft an email.
  • Call a phone number.

When not to use

Links are for navigation, not for triggering an action. If a user needs to do something — like sign up, save, or submit — use a button, not a link.

Accessibility

Make sure link text clearly explains where the link goes. Screen reader users often navigate a page using link text. All users should be able to understand a link’s destination without reading surrounding text.

Link text should be specific, brief, and clear. Avoid vague link labels like:

  • Click here.
  • Read more.
  • This link.

Instead, choose labels like:

  • Your account.
  • View election results.
  • Register for the event.

Keyboard

Users must be able to tab to links and press Enter to activate them.
 

Related components

We want to hear from you

This is a pre-release version of Keystone Design System. If you're a beta tester, we want your bug reports, questions, and feedback.

 

Complete our form to share your thoughts—just log in with your PA.gov email. We'll review and consider every response.