When Should You Open a Link in the Same Tab or a New Tab?

Understanding the Basics of Link Opening Behavior

As a web professional, there is one critical piece of information you need to grasp: where to place the `target"_blank"` code in HTML hyperlinks. This decision can significantly affect user experience and, in turn, the success of your website.

Essentially, there are two main scenarios: linking to another page within your website or linking to an external site. For a seamless experience, it's recommended that links within your own website should not open in a new tab, while links to external sites should always open in a new tab, thanks to the `target"_blank"` attribute.

The Importance of Visitor Attention

The primary reason for promoting the opening of external links in a new tab is the short attention span of web users. Studies suggest that people can hold their attention for less than four seconds. This brief period is more than enough to capture a visitor's interest and get them to click a link.

Once a visitor clicks a link leading to an external site, they are effectively giving that other site a moment to engage with them, potentially at the expense of your website. This behavior can make it less likely for them to return to your website after clicking out, leading to a loss of potential traffic and engagement.

For a deeper understanding, here's a succinct summary of the key point: the `target"_blank"` code should be used when linking to an external site to ensure the visitor is directed to a new tab, maintaining control over your site's content and encouraging a return visit.

However, There Are Exceptions

While the general rule is clear, there are specific circumstances where opening a link in the same tab is more appropriate. For instance, if you reference another article within your content, it’s often beneficial to open this reference in the same tab rather than a new one. This strategy allows users to continue reading your article while exploring the referenced content.

By opening the link in the same tab, you keep your audience engaged and maintain the flow of your content. This method is designed to encourage users to explore additional pieces of content while staying within your site, thus increasing the time spent on your website and enhancing the user experience.

Conclusion

In summary, understanding when to use the `target"_blank"` attribute is crucial for a web developer or designer. Opening internal links in the same tab and external links in a new tab aligns with best practices for SEO, user experience, and maintaining visitor engagement. By following these guidelines, you can optimize your website to attract and retain visitors more effectively.