Real destination
The link leads to a published, accessible page useful at that point. Check status, redirects and language.
Record to retain · URL and response
GUIDE / LINKS
Build internal links that help readers
An internal link should answer a reader’s next question. Its value comes from context, destination and ease of access.
01 / GUIDE / LINKS
Start with reading tasks
Inventory pages that explain, verify and help readers act. For each path, note the next step the reader needs. A relevant link serves better than a repeated list of destinations on every page.
Guides02 / GUIDE / LINKS
Five link checks
Internal links help discover pages and understand relationships without artificial repetition.
Clear anchor
Link text concisely predicts the destination; avoid long sequences of generic read-more links.
Record to retain · Anchor and promiseSemantic context
Place the link near the explanation that justifies it: definition, evidence, method or comparison.
Record to retain · Source sentenceBalanced path
Connect general guides to specialist dossiers and offer a relevant return or next step.
Record to retain · Reading pathMaintenance
After creating, merging or retiring a page, check incoming links, language variants and sitemap.
Record to retain · Change record03 / GUIDE / LINKS
Four steps to a readable graph
A short map of pages and their roles is enough to guide link choices.
- 01
Classify pages
Identify pillars, deep dives, definitions, protocols and references.
- 02
Trace reader needs
For each page, identify the next question a reader may reasonably ask.
- 03
Add links
Use HTML links with href, natural anchors and destinations in the right language.
- 04
Test the path
Follow links by keyboard and on mobile; check URLs and isolated pages.
04 / GUIDE / LINKS
Three common problems
The fix depends on the page’s actual role.
An important page is isolated
Link to it from a relevant dossier or guide with a sentence explaining its value.
Read the dossierTwo pages repeat a topic
Clarify their angles, merge if needed and repair incoming links.
Read the dossierA guide should lead to action
Connect its method to a protocol yielding evidence or a practical decision.
Read the dossier05 / GUIDE / LINKS
Method references
06 / FAQ
Linking questions
How many links per page?
There is no magic number. Keep links that help readers understand or continue their task.
Is navigation enough?
Menus help movement, while contextual links also explain why another page matters.
Must the target keyword repeat exactly?
No. Write natural, descriptive anchors; mechanical repetition reduces clarity.
07 / Discuss a context
Connect decisions, not only URLs
A clear path helps a reader move from idea to method and relevant evidence.