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Inline links and cards are not interchangeable. Each carries a different implication about how important the destination is and how much the reader should interrupt their flow to follow it. Before adding a navigation element, ask how much attention the destination deserves. That answer determines the right component. An inline link is the default. Use it when:
  • The reference is contextual. The reader might want more detail, but continuing without following it is fine.
  • The destination is supplementary, not required.
  • The link appears within a sentence.
This is a hint, not a call to action. Most readers continue reading. Some open the link for context. The inline format correctly signals its optional nature. Inline links are also right for cross-references between closely related pages, citations, and anywhere the link is one of several possible paths forward. It’s not the primary next step.

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Cards

A card is a call to action. Use it when:
  • There’s a clear next step and you want to make it prominent.
  • The destination is important enough to interrupt reading and draw attention.
  • You’re pointing to a page the reader should visit before continuing.
  • You’re at the end of a section or page and guiding the reader forward.
Cards are meant to capture attention. Readers generally notice cards but can skim past inline links. Use a card over an inline link when the destination is important enough that you want it visible even to readers who are skimming.
Next up: End-of-page navigation patterns — What to put at the bottom of a page to help readers continue naturally.