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How to Add a Hyperlink in WordPress: Easy Guide

Posted on by William Zheng

Ever wondered how to guide your readers to other helpful resources or promote your favorite pages right from your blog posts? Adding hyperlinks in WordPress is a simple skill that can transform your content, making it more interactive and valuable.

Whether you’re new to blogging or polishing your website, knowing how to link content is essential for better navigation and SEO. In this article, you’ll discover step-by-step instructions, practical tips, and common mistakes to avoid when adding hyperlinks in WordPress.

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How to Add a Hyperlink in WordPress: A Step-by-Step Guide

Adding hyperlinks in WordPress is one of the most fundamental ways to enhance your content. Whether you’re linking to another page on your site, providing resources for your readers, or boosting your SEO through internal linking, knowing how to insert hyperlinks effectively is essential for any WordPress user. This guide will walk you through the different methods, tips, and best practices for adding links seamlessly—no matter your experience level.

What Is a Hyperlink and Why Is It Important?

A hyperlink (or just “link”) is embedded text or an image that, when clicked, takes visitors to another web page or resource. In WordPress, hyperlinks help you:

  • Direct readers to additional information or resources.
  • Guide your audience to other relevant posts or products on your website.
  • Improve your site’s SEO (Search Engine Optimization) by connecting related content.
  • Provide references to credible sources, boosting your site’s trustworthiness.

Methods to Add a Hyperlink in WordPress

WordPress offers several simple ways to insert hyperlinks into your content. Here’s how to do it using the most popular editors—plus a code-based method for advanced users.

1. Using the Block Editor (Gutenberg)

The Block Editor, commonly known as Gutenberg, is now the default editor for WordPress. It’s intuitive and offers easy link management.

Step-by-Step Guide:

  1. Select the Text or Image
  2. Click and highlight the text you want to turn into a hyperlink.

  3. Alternatively, select an image block.

  4. Click the Link Icon

  5. Look for the toolbar above your highlighted text or image.

  6. Click the link (chain) icon.

  7. Enter the URL

  8. Type or paste the URL you want to link to in the popup field.

  9. WordPress offers suggestion dropdowns for internal content, making it easy to link to your own pages or posts.

  10. Set Link Options (Optional)

  11. Click the settings (gear) icon to choose options, such as opening the link in a new tab.

  12. Apply the Link

  13. Press “Enter” or click the “Apply” (arrow) icon.

  14. Save or Update Your Post

  15. Don’t forget to save your changes by hitting “Update” or “Publish”.


How to Add a Link to WordPress - wikiHow Tech - add a hyperlink in wordpress

2. Using the Classic Editor

If you’re using the Classic Editor or an environment that still offers the TinyMCE interface, adding links is just as easy.

Steps:

  1. Highlight the text you wish to link.
  2. Click the “Insert/edit link” button from the toolbar (looks like a chain).
  3. Paste or type in the desired URL.
  4. Check the “Open link in a new tab” box if you want.
  5. Click the “Apply” or “Add Link” button.
  6. Save or update your post.

3. Using HTML Code (Advanced)

Sometimes, you may want more control or are working directly in the code view.

How to Add a Link Using HTML:

  • Use the following code snippet:
Anchor Text

Explanation of attributes:
– href: The URL the link goes to.
– target="_blank": Opens the link in a new tab.
– rel="noopener": Adds security when opening a new tab.

Internal vs. External Links: What’s the Difference?

  • Internal Links: Direct to other pages within your own WordPress site. For example, linking to your blog’s contact page or related articles.
  • External Links: Direct to pages outside your website, like reference articles, partner sites, or external resources.

Why it matters:
– Internal links improve SEO and user navigation.
– External links support your content with additional reference and can help build relationships with other creators.

Practical Tips & Best Practices for Adding Links

Adding hyperlinks isn’t just about highlighting text—use these tips to make the most impact:

Use Descriptive Anchor Text

  • Instead of linking “click here”, use keywords that describe the destination. For example: “Learn how to choose the right WordPress theme”.

Open External Links in a New Tab

  • For external resources, set them to open in a new tab. This prevents users from leaving your site completely.

Regularly Check and Update Your Links

  • Links can go stale. Use WordPress plugins or manual checks to monitor and fix broken links.

Limit the Number of Links per Page

  • Over-linking can confuse readers and clutter your content. Use links strategically.


How to Add a Hyperlink in WordPress (Block and Code Editors) - add a hyperlink in wordpress

Add ‘nofollow’ When Appropriate

  • If you don’t want to pass SEO authority to an external page (such as sponsored posts), add rel="nofollow" to the link.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

1. Broken or Outdated Links

Regularly revisit your posts or use plugins to scan for broken links. Update or remove non-working URLs to keep your site user-friendly and credible.

2. Linking to Irrelevant Content

Always ensure your links add real value to your readers. Linking only for SEO or sales can turn off your audience.

3. Forgetting to Open Links in a New Tab

Remember, if a user clicks an external link and it opens in the same tab, they leave your site. Opening in a new tab helps retain visitors.

4. Anchor Text Over-Optimization

Using the same keyword phrase for every link (like always linking “best WordPress hosting”) can look unnatural and harm SEO. Vary your anchor text.

Cost Considerations

Adding hyperlinks in WordPress is completely free. There are no charges for creating, editing, or managing links within your posts or pages, regardless of whether you use the free or paid version of WordPress.

If you’re looking for advanced linking features, such as automated internal linking or broken-link checking, some third-party plugins may have free and paid versions. Always review plugin costs and features before purchasing.

There is no shipping or fulfillment cost associated with adding or editing links in WordPress.

Practical Example: Adding a Link in Post or Page

Let’s put it all together with a brief example:

  1. Open a post or page you want to edit.
  2. Highlight the text: “Check out our latest guide on SEO strategies.”
  3. Click the link icon (chain).
  4. Type or paste in the desired URL, such as https://yourwebsite.com/seo-strategies-guide.
  5. Choose “Open in a new tab” (if it’s external).
  6. Click Apply.
  7. Save or update your post.

Pro Tips for Effective Linking

  • Use internal links to old content: This keeps older, valuable posts visible and drives ongoing traffic.
  • Add links contextually: Insert links where they fit naturally, not just at the end of posts.
  • Maintain a balance: Too few links and the post is isolated; too many, and it’s overwhelming.
  • Use link plugins with care: Automated plugins can speed up the process but may reduce link quality and relevance.
  • Test your links periodically: Ensure the URLs are correct and direct users to the intended destinations.

A Quick Word on Accessibility

Everyone should be able to navigate your links. Accessible hyperlinking means:

  • Keeping anchor text clear and descriptive.
  • Avoiding the use of only “click here”.
  • Ensuring color contrast is strong for visibility.
  • Using underlines or clear visual indicators for links.

Summary

Adding a hyperlink in WordPress is quick and straightforward, thanks to the platform’s user-friendly Block and Classic editors. By following simple steps—highlighting text, clicking the link icon, and entering the URL—you enhance your content’s value, improve navigation, and support your site’s SEO goals. When used wisely, hyperlinks keep your audience engaged and help them discover everything your site offers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the difference between internal and external links in WordPress?

Internal links point to other pages within your own website, helping users navigate and search engines understand your site structure. External links point to pages or resources on other websites.

2. How do I make a link open in a new tab in WordPress?

After inserting the link, look for a toggle or checkbox that says “Open in new tab” in the link options popup. Select it before applying your link.

3. Can I add links to images in WordPress?

Yes! Click on the image block, look for the link icon in the toolbar, and paste the URL you wish the image to link to.

4. How can I check for broken links on my WordPress site?

You can use WordPress plugins designed to scan for and report broken links. Some popular options offer both free and paid plans.

5. Is there a limit to how many links I can add to a WordPress post or page?

There’s no strict limit. However, it’s best to use links sparingly and thoughtfully—too many can hurt readability and may affect SEO.

With these tips and techniques, you’re well-equipped to add effective, reader-friendly hyperlinks to your WordPress site. Happy linking!

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