Optimal href Values for JavaScript Links
Developers discuss whether to use The advantages and disadvantages of both strategies are discussed in this article with regard to validation, page load time, and functionality. When creating effective and compliant web apps, developers can make better judgments if they are aware of the distinctions. The supplied scripts show off two popular techniques for making hyperlinks that, when clicked, launch JavaScript code. In the first example, the JavaScript function myJsFunc() is called using <a href="#" and the onclick attribute. This is a simple solution, but it has a downside in that the href="#" attribute's normal behavior causes the browser to scroll to the top of the page. In spite of this, it is a straightforward and popular technique for managing JavaScript in links, particularly in situations where the least amount of functionality is required. In the second example, the onclick property is combined with <a href="javascript:void(0)". This method completely stops the hyperlink's typical behavior, preventing any unintentional scrolling or navigation. When it comes to making sure that the link does nothing other than run the JavaScript function and not change the state of the page, using javascript:void(0) is quite useful. This approach is favored in many contemporary online apps since it can help preserve the page's scroll position and save needless reloads. HTML and JavaScript Example
Command
Description
<script>
Defines a JavaScript or other client-side script.
function myJsFunc()
Declares a JavaScript function called myJsFunc.
alert()
Shows an alert dialog with the given message shown.
<a href="#"
Enables the creation of a hyperlink pointing to the page's top.
onclick
Feature that, upon clicking an element, launches JavaScript code.
href="javascript:void(0)"
Stops the hyperlink from doing its default action and has no effect when clicked.
Recognizing Links in JavaScript using href Values
How to Run JavaScript Code with "href='#'"
<!DOCTYPE html>
<html>
<head>
<title>JavaScript Link Example</title>
<script>
function myJsFunc() {
alert("myJsFunc");
}
</script>
</head>
<body>
<a href="#" onclick="myJsFunc();">Run JavaScript Code</a>
</body>
</html>
Using "href='javascript:void(0)'" How to Execute JavaScript Code
HTML and JavaScript Example
<!DOCTYPE html><html><head><title>JavaScript Link Example</title><script>function myJsFunc() {alert("myJsFunc");}</script></head><body><a href="javascript:void(0)" onclick="myJsFunc();">Run JavaScript Code</a></body></html>
Choosing JavaScript Links' Appropriate href Value
The effects on web standards and user experience should be taken into account when choosing between href="#" and href="javascript:void(0)" for JavaScript links. The href="#" technique is well-known and practical, but it has a disadvantage in that it defaults to the top of the page, which may cause the user's scroll position to be disturbed. On lengthy pages, where visitors could lose their place after clicking the link, this can be particularly problematic. Furthermore, utilizing href="#" might unintentionally disrupt the website's accessibility and navigational flow.
However, href="javascript:void(0)" provides a more hygienic alternative by completely blocking the link's default behavior. This makes sure that the user's scroll position is unaffected and that no undesired navigational behaviors are introduced by the link. Using javascript:void(0) also makes the link more consistent with contemporary web development principles, as it makes it obvious that its purpose is to run JavaScript code only. This strategy can enhance the readability and maintainability of the code, making it simpler for other developers to comprehend the link's purpose.
Frequently Asked Questions and Responses regarding href values in JavaScript links
- In a link, what does href="#" accomplish?
- href="#" generates a hyperlink pointing to the page's top.
- Why is using href="javascript:void(0)" recommended?
- href="javascript:void(0)" stops the hyperlink from doing its default action and stops any accidental page scrolling or navigation.
- Does the performance of href="#" and href="javascript:void(0)" differ from one another?
- Although href="javascript:void(0)" does not significantly affect performance, it can make the user experience more seamless by reducing needless scrolling.
- Which approach is more accessible?
- href="javascript:void(0)" is usually preferable for accessibility since it doesn't interfere with the user's flow of navigation.
- Can I use links that aren't JavaScript using href="#"?
- Yes, but it's preferable to manage navigation with a suitable JavaScript function or a working URL.
- What disadvantages come with utilizing href="#"?
- The main disadvantage is that it could make the website scroll to the top, which could be annoying for the user.
- How does Using these href values affect onclick?
- Regardless of the href value, clicking the link triggers the execution of JavaScript code via the onclick attribute.
- Is the URL href="javascript:void(0)" legitimate?
- Indeed, href="javascript:void(0)" is a legitimate URL that, when clicked, does nothing.
Concluding Remarks on JavaScript Values for the link href
In summary, whereas href="#" and href="javascript:void(0)" can both be used to create JavaScript links, their functions are distinct. href="#" is simple, however it can make the website scroll, which would be inconvenient for the user. On the other hand, by blocking any default action, href="javascript:void(0)" guarantees a more seamless interaction. href="javascript:void(0)" is usually the better option for modern web development because it handles JavaScript execution more cleanly and doesn't change the state of the page.