We explain what hypertext is in computing and what its importance is on the Internet. Characteristics and uses of hypertext.
What is a hypertext?
Hypertext in computing is an information creation, linking and distribution tool from various sources, which operates based on a structure that is not sequential but associative, that is, not linear, direct, but leads from one thing to another, very much in the manner of human thought.
This is given through associative links called hyperlinks or cross references which lead from a main document to other secondary documents in which it is possible to rescue supplementary or complementary information. This dynamic is called linking or link (from English), and is essential in the use of the Internet.
Hypertext, despite its name, is not limited to written or textual information, but can link to images, sounds, audiovisual documents, entire Web pages or any other form of digital action (sending an e-mail, downloading a file). , etc.). The coexistence of this type of formats is usually called hypermedia.
Hypertext documents must be opened and read with a browser either browser (also “viewer” or “client”), which is computer software designed for this, and the action of jumping from a hypertext to others available on the Web is called surf the internet.
See also: WWW
Characteristics of a hypertext
Hypertexts are characterized by being:
- Multimedia As we already said, they are not limited to written text, but can link to images, sounds, videos, etc.
- Digital Hypertext is typical of digital and cybernetic dynamics; it cannot be transferred to paper or other media, although human memory seems to function in a similar way.
- Connectives All hypertext leads to some part of the Web, except in cases where said link has been broken (missing files, pages no longer available, etc.).
- Interactive Hypertexts require user action (generally, in operating systems such as Windows, a click of the mouse or mouse) to operate, they do not fire automatically.
- Reusable The same hypertext can be used infinite times.
- Extendable Hypertext allows the reading experience to be prolonged with other documents and extend the scope of information available to the user.
- Transients Since hypertexts are basically links, their validity will depend on whether the destination to which they lead is available. Hyperlinks whose destination is not available are known as “dead” or “broken.”
Uses of hypertext
Broadly speaking, hypertext serves to:
- Provide reference material to readers Such as secondary documents, added information, clarifying a concept, etc. This information can be both general and specific.
- Fragment the reading material Allowing you to get to the point of the information requested by the user but leaving the door open so that, if you wish, you can access more relevant information or the rest of the document you started reading (previews).
