How To Add Resource and Source Links (Attribution)

Adding resources and source links to your content is a required skill for CopyPress writers. This is a skill we test for in our onboarding. Read below to learn how to properly add links to your content.


There are two valuable types of links in content:

  • Resource Links: These connect readers to additional relevant information (so the reader can learn more and easily access complementary information).
  • Source Links: These attribute sources of specific information (so the reader can verify the information and locate the original source).

Links may lead to outbound websites or internal web pages on the client site. Only use links naturally; never force links in for the sake of having links.

How To Use Resource Links

The best articles include at least two or three links that lead to other web pages, articles, or blogs that further elaborate on the topic. These resource links add value to the article by giving the reader additional information about the topic and leading them to other information they will find useful.

Naturally incorporate resource links when writing about: 

  • A webpage, article, or blog that further elaborates on the topic (link to the site or specific blog or article).
  • A topic you did not elaborate on but the reader may be interested in learning more about.
  • Items in a list of resources (link to the webpage associated with the listed resources).
  • A product or service offered on the client site (link to the page with more details on the product or service).
  • Specific websites and social profiles.

How To Use Source Links (Attribution)

Always use source links to give credit to sources of specific information such as statistics, facts, and quotes. Refer to the source in the content, then use the source as the anchor text and the source webpage as the target URL.

Example: "A circulation study showed that those who drink coffee may be less prone to neurological diseases."

Always try to cite the original source. Many websites use information found through other resources. Whenever possible, go back to the original source of the information and cite that source.

For example, a search to find “coffee drinking trends” may return an article on Beverage Daily’s website, but the webpage shows the source of the information as “source: Circulation,” so you must search for that exact study to find the original source.

Rules for Resources and Source Links

When adding resources and source links, adhere to the following rules:

  • Only link to trustworthy pages directly related to the text.
  • Do not link to the client's competitors.
  • Do not link to the same webpage more than once (unless it is the client’s site).
  • Avoid adding three or more links in a single paragraph.
  • Avoid linking to Wikipedia.

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