The Link TITLE Attribute Explained

There are several link attributes that are used for SEO. This list also includes the link TITLE attribute. But due to the popularity of WordPress – a content management system – many people make mistakes in writing correct HTML code.

By default, WordPress and other similar systems automatically duplicate the post title and insert the duplicate into the link TITLE attribute. But this is wrong, and it’s time to fix this mistake.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what the link TITLE attribute is, and when to use it, and when not.

What is the link TITLE attribute?

The link TITLE attribute is not used as a copy of your post title, but rather provides additional information that helps clarify and describe the purpose of the link. The anchor text names your link, and the title text expands the meaning of a link and gives extra information about where the link will send the user.

It’s also important to remember that the link TITLE attribute has nothing to do with search engines. But the way search engines work and the way they rank are constantly changing. This is why it is so important to get rid of prejudices and understand all the details of using the link TITLE attribute.

Why shouldn’t you use the link TITLE attribute?

If you are simply duplicating your anchor text and the title tag can not provide extra information about the link, then it is best not to use the TITLE attribute at all.

Imagine you scroll through a link and the title pops up, covering the text. Would it annoy you? The same applies to other users.

Are there any exceptions?

There is some adaptive screen reading software – for example, for blind people. It can be helpful to add a title tag with hyperlinked anchor text and descriptive elements. That is, you can use the same anchor text.

From a convenience perspective, users will see the same information twice. Since most browsers display the full TITLE attribute when you hover over a link, this can be useful for completing information that is not visible on the main link.

When to use the link TITLE attribute?

The link TITLE attribute is worth using when you want to provide users with more information about the link or the page it leads to. For example, when you use in your anchor text «click here», «more details», etc.

It is also advisable not to emphasize the title attributes too much, as most screen readers do not display them. It is best to rely on your anchor text to provide context and explain the link to users.

What do search engines say about the link TITLE attribute?

According to Google, the TITLE attribute offers additional information about the element for which it is set. Since Googlebot does not see the image directly, it is best to focus on the information in the «alt» attribute. Remember, if your information is valuable to users, don’t be afraid to add the word «title» and other attributes to the «alt» attribute.

According to Bing, the anchor text is your main page description. If you use inline links, do it naturally so that the main text does not lose its readability. Thus, use the TITLE attribute to add extra information without negatively affecting the original text.