target=”_blank” Use it or not?
Since long time even before starting blogs when I used to learn html lessons I learnt this simple thing target=”_blank” which makes links open in a new window. Since then I was fascinated by this attribute. I used it in whatever web pages that I created using simple html coding.
The advantage of putting target=”_blank” is it lessens the visitor’s work like right clicking and opening it in a new tab or new window. Simply clicking on the link will open a new window or a tab. Also the visitor will not go away from the page while reading halfway.
The disadvantage of putting target attribute as said in other websites is that it makes compulsory for the user to open new windows. To open the links in a new window or in the same window should be the option of the visitor and not the author.
There is an interesting discussion at the webmaster world (link1, link2) regarding the target attribute. Also some popup blockers do not allow the links to open in a new window it seems. Some websites use target attribute only for external links. Some don’t use target at all.
I am still confused I should use it or not? But for the time being it is better not to use it. Hence I shall not use target=”_blank” here afterwards.
Update: This post was written in MS Word and published using blogger plug-in for word. Word Verification for comments has been enabled for this blog to prevent comment spamming.