Creating Shorter Links - Simplified Guide

If you have a long URL that you want to share with others, you may want to make it smaller and more manageable. Making a link smaller is a simple process that can help you save space and make your content more concise.

There are several ways to make a link smaller. One common method is to use a URL shortening service. These services take a long URL and create a shorter, more compact link that redirects to the original address. Some popular URL shorteners include Bitly, TinyURL, and Ow.ly. Simply paste your link into the service's website, and it will generate a shorter version for you to copy and share.

Another way to make a link smaller is to use a hyperlink with anchor text. Instead of displaying the entire URL, you can create a clickable link with a few words or a short phrase. This not only makes the link appear smaller, but it also makes it more visually appealing and easier to read. For example, instead of displaying "https://www.example.com/article12345", you can use the anchor text "Read more" or "Click here". To create a hyperlink, you can use the <a> tag with the href attribute.

Finally, you can also make a link smaller by using a URL compression technique known as a redirect. This involves setting up a redirect from a shorter, easy-to-remember URL to the original long URL. For example, instead of sharing "https://www.example.com/verylongandcomplicatedurl", you can create a redirect from "https://www.example.com/shortcut". This way, when someone clicks on the shorter URL, they will be automatically redirected to the longer one. To set up a redirect, you can use server-side scripting or a content management system (CMS) that supports URL rewriting.

In conclusion, if you want to make a link smaller, you have several options to choose from. Whether you use a URL shortening service, create a hyperlink with anchor text, or set up a redirect, the goal is to make your links more concise and user-friendly. By following these steps, you can make your content more easily shareable and accessible to your audience.

Step 1: Copy the Link

To make a smaller link, you first need to start by copying the link that you want to make smaller. This can be done by highlighting the entire link using your mouse or keyboard shortcuts, and then right-clicking and selecting "Copy" or using the shortcut Ctrl+C or Command+C.

Once you have copied the link, you will be able to move on to the next step in the process of making a smaller link.

Step 2: Open a Link Shortener

Once you have decided to make a link smaller, you will need to find a link shortener to do the job. There are several link shorteners available online, and most of them are free to use. These tools allow you to input your long link and generate a shorter, more compact version.

Here's how you can open a link shortener:

1. Search for a Link Shortener

Start by doing a quick search on your preferred search engine, such as Google or Bing, for "link shortener." This will provide you with a list of popular link shortening services that you can choose from.

2. Select a Link Shortener

Review the various link shorteners and choose the one that best fits your needs. Consider factors such as ease of use, additional features, and compatibility with the platforms you plan on using the shortened links.

3. Go to the Link Shortener Website

Click on the link to the chosen link shortener's website from the search results. This will take you to their homepage or landing page, where you can begin the process of shortening your link.

Remember to read any terms of service or privacy policies before using a link shortener to ensure that it aligns with your requirements and preferences.

By following these steps, you will be able to open a link shortener and proceed with making your link smaller.

Step 3: Paste the Link

To make a link smaller, you need to paste it in the appropriate place. Here's how you can do it:

1. Copy the link that you want to make smaller. You can do this by highlighting the link and then pressing Ctrl+C (or Command+C on a Mac).

2. Go to the location where you want to paste the link. This can be in a text editor, a document, an email, or any other place where you can write text.

3. Click on the location where you want to paste the link. Then, press Ctrl+V (or Command+V on a Mac) to paste the link. The link will be inserted at the cursor location.

4. Make sure to check if the link appears correctly after pasting it. Sometimes, the formatting may get disrupted during the copy-paste process.

That's it! Now you know how to paste a link in order to make it smaller. In the next step, we will look at how you can customize the link to your liking.

Step 4: Choose a Shortened Link

Now that you know how to make a link smaller, it's time to choose a shortened link. There are several services available that can help you with this. Here's how to do it:

Option 1: Using a URL Shortener Service

One way to make a link smaller is to use a URL shortener service. These services specialize in creating shorter URLs that redirect to the original link. To use a URL shortener service, follow these steps:

1. Go to a URL shortener website such as Bitly or TinyURL.
2. Copy and paste your long link into the provided box or field.
3. Click on the "Shorten" or "Generate" button to create your shortened link.
4. Copy the shortened link that is provided.
5. You can now use this shortened link in your website, email, or social media posts.

Option 2: Creating a Redirect Page

Another option is to create a redirect page on your own website. This involves creating a page with a shorter URL that redirects to the longer link. Here's how to do it:

1. Create a new HTML file on your website.
2. Add a meta refresh tag to the head section of the HTML file. The tag should include the URL of the long link and a time interval for the redirect.
3. Save the HTML file and upload it to your website.
4. Test the redirect by visiting the shortened link. It should automatically redirect to the longer link.
5. Utilize this shortened link in your content.

These are two common methods for making a link smaller. Choose the option that works best for you and your needs. Remember to test your shortened links before sharing them to ensure they work correctly.

Step 5: Generate the Shortened Link

Once you have learned how to make a link smaller, the next step is to generate the shortened link.

There are several online tools available that can help you generate a shortened link. One example is Bitly, which allows you to enter a long URL and receive a shortened version in return.

To generate a shortened link, simply copy and paste your original link into the provided field on the tool's website. Then, click on the "Shorten" button or a similar action to initiate the process.

The tool will then generate a shortened link that you can use instead of the original long URL. This shortened link will typically be much shorter and easier to share, making it more convenient for both you and your audience.

It's important to note that when generating a shortened link, you may have the option to customize it. Some tools allow you to choose a custom alias for your link, while others provide a random combination of letters and numbers.

Remember: Generating a shortened link does not affect the original URL or the page it leads to. It simply creates a shorter, more manageable version of the link.

Benefits of Using Shortened Links

1. Improved aesthetics: Shortened links can make your content look cleaner and more professional, especially when sharing links on social media or in email campaigns.

2. Better user experience: Long links can be difficult for users to remember, type, or engage with. Shortened links make it easier for users to interact with your content.

Step 6: Click on the Shortened Link

Now that you have successfully shortened your link, it's time to see it in action. Just click on the shortened link to test it out.

When you click on the link, it will redirect you to the original webpage or resource that you initially entered. The process of clicking on the link is the same as clicking on any other link on the internet.

By clicking on the shortened link, you will be able to confirm that it is indeed working and leading to the correct destination. This is important, especially if you are planning to share the link with others.

Why Clicking on the Link is Important

Clicking on the link is important because it allows you to make sure that the link is working and leading to the intended destination. By clicking on the link, you will be able to see if any errors occur or if the link redirects you to an unexpected location.

Additionally, clicking on the link also allows you to test the overall user experience. You can see if the link opens quickly, if it is visually appealing, and if it leads to the correct page or resource.

Overall, clicking on the shortened link is the final step to ensure that your efforts to make a link smaller have been successful. So go ahead and click on that link!

Step 7: Test the Shortened Link

Once you have successfully shortened your link, it's important to test it to ensure that it is working correctly. Testing the link will help you verify that it redirects to the correct destination. Here's how to do it:

1. Copy the shortened link.
2. Open a new browser window or tab.
3. Paste the shortened link into the address bar.
4. Press Enter or Return to visit the shortened link.

After following these steps, the shortened link should redirect you to the intended destination. If it does not, double-check that you correctly followed the earlier steps to make the link smaller.

Testing the link is crucial because it allows you to make any necessary adjustments before sharing it with others. By confirming that the shortened link works as intended, you can feel confident in using it in your emails, social media posts, or other online platforms.

Step 8: Share the Shortened Link

Once you have successfully shortened your link, you can share it with others. There are several ways to do this:

Choose the method that suits your needs best and share the shortened link with others. They will be able to access the destination webpage by clicking or scanning the link, making it easier to share and remember.

Step 9: Track the Shortened Link

To make sure your shortened link is performing well and getting the desired results, it is important to track its performance. Tracking a link allows you to monitor and analyze the number of clicks it receives, the sources of those clicks, and other important metrics.

To track your shortened link, you can use various web analytics tools available online. These tools provide you with valuable insights about your link's performance and help you optimize it for better results.

Some of the popular link tracking tools include Google Analytics, Bitly, and ClickMeter. These tools allow you to generate tracking links and provide detailed reports on click-through rates, traffic sources, and other crucial data.

By tracking your shortened link, you can gain a deeper understanding of its effectiveness and make informed decisions to improve its performance. Whether you are using the link for marketing campaigns or simply sharing it with friends, tracking can help you measure its impact and make any necessary adjustments.

So, don't forget to track your shortened link to ensure that it is meeting your goals and objectives. With the right tools and analysis, you can optimize your link and make the most out of its potential.

Step 10: Customize the Shortened Link

To make the shortened link more unique and personalized, you can customize it by adding specific keywords or numbers. This will help you remember the link easily and make it more identifiable for others. Here's how you can do it:

1. Open the URL shortening service you are using.
2. Locate the option for link customization.
3. Enter the desired keywords or numbers in the designated field.
4. Check the availability of the customized link.
5. If the link is available, save the changes.
6. Test the customized link to confirm if it redirects correctly.
7. Share the customized link with others.

By customizing your shortened link, you can make it stand out and reflect the content or purpose of the original link. It can also make it easier for others to recognize the link and engage with it.

Step 11: Add a Vanity URL

Adding a vanity URL is another way to make a link smaller. A vanity URL is a customized web address that is short, memorable, and relevant to the content or brand it represents. By using a vanity URL, you can make your link more visually appealing and easier to share.

To create a vanity URL, follow these steps:

1. Choose the right domain

Start by selecting a domain name that is concise and aligned with your content or brand. Consider using keywords related to your website or the page you are linking to. Avoid using excessive hyphens or numbers, as they can make the URL less appealing.

2. Purchase the domain

Once you have chosen the desired domain name, you need to purchase it from a domain registrar. There are many reputable registrars available online. Ensure that the chosen domain is available and purchase it accordingly.

3. Set up URL forwarding

After purchasing the domain, set up URL forwarding to redirect the vanity URL to the original, longer URL. This can usually be done by accessing the domain registrar's control panel and configuring the forwarding settings.

URL forwarding ensures that when someone accesses the vanity URL, they are automatically redirected to the longer URL. This way, you can have a small, memorable URL that leads to the content you want to share.

By following these steps, you can add a vanity URL to your link and make it smaller. This will enhance your branding, improve link readability, and make it easier for others to remember and share your content.

Step 12: Analyze the Shortened Link

Now that you have successfully shortened your link, it's important to analyze its performance and track its effectiveness. Analyzing the shortened link allows you to understand how well it is performing and whether it is achieving its intended goals.

One way to analyze your shortened link is by using a link tracking service or software. These tools provide valuable insights such as the number of clicks, the sources of traffic, and the devices used to access the link. With this information, you can determine which channels or platforms are driving the most traffic to your link and make informed decisions based on the data.

Analyzing the shortened link can also help you measure the success of your marketing campaigns. By comparing the click-through rates of different links or variations of the same link, you can identify which messages or designs resonate better with your audience. This data allows you to optimize your future campaigns and improve your overall marketing strategy.

In addition to link tracking services, you can also use Google Analytics or other web analytics tools to monitor the performance of your shortened links. By tagging your shortened links with UTM parameters, you can track their performance within your analytics platform and gain additional insights about user behavior and conversions.

Overall, analyzing the shortened link is a crucial step in understanding the impact of your efforts and maximizing the potential of every link you share. By leveraging the data provided by link tracking tools and web analytics, you can make informed decisions about your marketing strategies and achieve better results.

Step 13: Set the Shortened Link Expiry

Once you have created a shorter link, you may want to set an expiry date for it. This will ensure that the link becomes invalid after a certain period of time. Setting an expiry date can help with security and prevent unauthorized access to your links.

To set the shortened link expiry, you will need to modify the code in your link shortening application. Look for the section of code that handles link creation and storage. Within that code, you will need to add a variable or parameter to set the expiry date.

Depending on your application, you may need to set the expiry date as a specific date and time or as a duration. If you're setting a specific date and time, you will need to use a date and time format that is compatible with your programming language or framework.

If you're setting a duration, you will need to determine how long the link should remain active. You can specify the duration in minutes, hours, days, or any other unit of time that fits your needs.

When setting the expiry date, make sure to handle cases where the expiry period is exceeded. You can display an error message or redirect the user to a specific page indicating that the link has expired.

Setting the shortened link expiry is an important step in making your link smaller. It adds an extra layer of security and control to your link shortening process. By setting an expiry date, you can ensure that your links are only active for a specified period of time.

Step 14: Protect the Shortened Link

Now that you know how to make a link smaller, it's important to protect your shortened link to ensure its longevity. Here are a few things you can do to keep your link safe:

1. Use a Reliable Link Shortening Service

When choosing a link shortening service, opt for a reputable provider that has a good track record of reliability and security. Research and read reviews to select a service that offers advanced security features and protects against malicious activity.

2. Enable Link Expiration

Consider setting an expiration date for your shortened link. This way, the link will automatically become inactive after a certain period, reducing the risk of it being misused or accessed by unauthorized individuals.

3. Keep Link Details Private

Be cautious about sharing the full details of your shortened link, especially in public forums or with individuals you don't trust. Sharing only the abbreviated link itself can help protect it from being copied or tampered with.

4. Regularly Monitor Link Analytics

Stay vigilant by regularly monitoring the analytics of your shortened link. This will enable you to identify any suspicious activity or unauthorized access promptly.

By implementing these measures, you can help to protect your shortened link and ensure its effectiveness in sharing content securely.

Step 15: Shorten a Long URL

In order to make a link smaller, you can use a URL shortening service. These services take a long URL and provide you with a shorter, more compact version that you can use in your web pages or social media posts.

To do this, you can follow these steps:

Step 1: Find a URL Shortening Service

There are many URL shortening services available online. Some popular options include Bitly, TinyURL, and Ow.ly. You can choose the one that best fits your needs.

Step 2: Copy the Long URL

Take the long URL that you want to shorten and copy it. This could be the URL of a webpage, a blog post, or any other online resource.

Step 3: Paste the URL into the Shortening Service

Go to the URL shortening service of your choice and paste the long URL into the provided text box or field. Some services may require you to create an account before you can shorten URLs.

Step 4: Generate a Shortened URL

Once you have pasted the long URL, click on the "Shorten" or "Generate" button. The service will then create a shortened version of your URL.

Remember to test the shortened URL to make sure it works correctly. You can click on the shortened link to see if it redirects to the original long URL.

Congratulations! Now you know how to make a link smaller by using a URL shortening service. This can come in handy when sharing long URLs in limited character spaces, such as social media posts or text messages.

Step 16: Save the Shortened Link

Now that you know how to make a link smaller, let's see how you can save it for future use. Saving the shortened link is a simple process that allows you to access it whenever you need it without having to go through the previous steps. Follow the instructions below to learn how to do it:

By following these steps, you can now easily save the shortened link and use it whenever you need to share it or access the linked content. It's a convenient way to keep track of important links without the hassle of going through the entire process of making the link smaller again.

Step 17: Edit the Shortened Link

Now that you have your shortened link, you may want to make some edits to it. Knowing how to edit a link will give you more control over its appearance and placement on your webpage.

To edit the shortened link, you can do the following:

By knowing how to edit your shortened link, you can customize it to fit your specific needs and preferences. Whether it's changing the link text, modifying link attributes, or adjusting its style, you now have the power to make your link smaller and more tailored to your website.

Step 18: Delete the Shortened Link

Now that you know how to make a link smaller, you may want to delete the shortened link if you no longer need it. Deleting a shortened link is a simple process that can help declutter your bookmarks or save valuable storage space on your device.

To delete a shortened link, follow these steps:

1. I: Open the website or application where you created the shortened link.
2. II: Navigate to the section or page where you manage your shortened links.
3. III: Locate the shortened link that you want to delete.
4. IV: Click on the link or select the corresponding option to edit the link details.
5. V: Look for the option to delete the link.
6. VI: Confirm the deletion by clicking on the appropriate button or following any additional prompts.
7. VII: Verify that the shortened link has been deleted by checking that it no longer appears in your list of shortened links.

By following these steps, you can easily delete a shortened link and keep your link management organized.

Remember, it's always a good idea to periodically review and delete any unnecessary or outdated shortened links to maintain a tidy and efficient system.

Good luck!

Step 19: Restore the Shortened Link

Now that you know how to make a link smaller, you might also want to know how to restore it to its original size. To do this, you can follow these steps:

1. Open the HTML file or web page where the link is located.

2. Locate the shortened link that you want to restore. It may appear as a shortened URL or have a different appearance than a regular hyperlink.

3. Edit the shortened link by removing any changes that were made to it. This can include removing any additional characters or modifying the URL back to its original form.

4. Save the changes to the HTML file or web page.

By following these steps, you can easily restore a link to its original size and appearance. This can be useful if you want to undo any changes or modifications that were made to the link.

Step 20: Manage Shortened Links

Once you have made a link smaller, it's important to properly manage and organize them to keep track of your shortened links. Here's how you can do it:

1. Create a categorized folder or directory on your computer or cloud storage to store your shortened links. This will help you easily find and access them whenever you need.
2. Give meaningful names to your shortened links. Instead of using random characters or numbers, use descriptive names that indicate the destination or purpose of the link. This will make it easier for you to identify and remember the purpose of each link.
3. Consider creating a spreadsheet or document to keep a record of your shortened links. Include the original link, the shortened link, and any additional information you may find relevant.
4. Regularly review and update your shortened links. Remove any links that are no longer needed or have expired. This will help you maintain a clean and organized collection of shortened links.
5. Back up your shortened links regularly. This will prevent any data loss in case of a computer crash or accidental deletion.

By following these steps, you can effectively manage and organize your shortened links, ensuring easy access and efficient usage.

Step 21: Archive the Shortened Link

To archive the shortened link, you can follow these steps:

1. Find a reliable URL archiving service, such as Archive.org or WebCitation.org.
2. Visit the website of the chosen archiving service.
3. Locate the input field or text box for URL submission.
4. Copy the shortened link that you want to archive.
5. Paste the shortened link into the input field or text box.
6. Click on the "Archive" or "Submit" button.
7. Wait for the archiving service to process the link and create an archived version.
8. Once the archiving process is complete, you will be provided with a new URL that represents the archived version of the shortened link.
9. Copy the newly generated archived URL.
10. Ensure that the archived link works properly by opening it in a web browser.
11. You can now use the archived link for future reference or sharing.

By archiving the shortened link, you can ensure that it remains accessible even if the original URL or shortened link becomes outdated or inactive.

Step 22: Backup the Shortened Link

Now that you know how to make your link smaller, it's important to backup your shortened link. This will ensure that you don't lose the shortened version of your link if anything happens to the original long URL.

One way to backup your shortened link is to save it in a text document. Simply copy the shortened link and paste it into a new text document. Save the document with a descriptive name, such as "Link Backup.txt", so you can easily find it later.

Another option is to store your shortened link in a bookmark. This is especially useful if you frequently use the link and want quick access to it. Simply click the star icon in your browser's address bar to create a bookmark. Give the bookmark a name and select a folder to save it in. Whenever you need to access the shortened link, simply click on the bookmark.

Important Considerations

When backing up your shortened link, it's important to remember a few things:

• Regularly update your backup: If you make changes to the original long URL, be sure to update your backup as well. This will ensure that your backup link always points to the correct destination.
• Keep your backup secure: If your shortened link contains sensitive information, take steps to protect your backup. Consider encrypting the text document or storing the bookmark in a password-protected folder.

Conclusion

Backing up your shortened link is a simple but important step in the process of making a link smaller. By doing so, you can ensure that you don't lose the shortened version of your link and always have quick access to it.

Step 23: Redirect the Shortened Link

Once you have created a shortened link, the final step is to set up a redirect so that when someone clicks on the link, they are taken to the original URL.

To do this, you will need to use the i and a tags in HTML. The i tag is used to create an inline element, and the a tag is used to create a hyperlink.

First, find the element or text that you want to turn into a clickable link. Enclose this element or text within an a tag, like this:

In the href attribute, replace "http://www.originalurl.com" with the original URL that you want the shortened link to redirect to.

For example, if you have shortened the URL "http://www.example.com" and want the shortened link to redirect to this URL, the code will look like this:

Once you have added the a tag with the correct URL, the shortened link will be ready to use. When someone clicks on the link, they will be redirected to the original URL.

Remember to test the shortened link to ensure that it is working correctly. Click on the link and confirm that it takes you to the intended destination.

Step 24: Import the Shortened Link

Now that you know how to make a link smaller, let's learn how to import the shortened link into your website. Importing the link allows you to use it as a hyperlink on your web pages.

Create an HTML Link Element

To import the shortened link, you need to create an HTML <a> element. This element is used to define a hyperlink on a webpage.

To create the link element, use the following code:

<a href="https://shortened-link.com">Click here</a>

Replace https://shortened-link.com with your actual shortened link. The text "Click here" represents the anchor text that will be displayed on your webpage.

Save and Upload the HTML File

After creating the link element, save the HTML file and upload it to your web server. Make sure to keep the file structure intact, as the file paths may affect the functionality of the link.

Once the HTML file is uploaded, you can test the link by opening the webpage in a web browser. When you click on the anchor text, it should redirect you to the target URL that was shortened.

By following these steps, you can easily import a shortened link into your website and use it as a clickable hyperlink. This can help improve the usability and aesthetics of your web pages.

Step 25: Export the Shortened Link

After you've successfully shortened a link using the method described in the previous steps, you may want to export the shortened link for future use. This can be helpful if you want to share the link with others or keep it for your own records.

Here's how to export the shortened link:

Option 1: Copy and Paste

The simplest way to export the shortened link is to copy and paste it into a text editor or document. To do this, click and drag your cursor over the shortened link text to select it. Then, right-click on the selected text and choose the "Copy" option. Finally, open a text editor or document and place your cursor where you want the link to appear. Right-click again and choose the "Paste" option to insert the link.

Option 2: Save as a Bookmark

If you want to save the shortened link for your own use, you can save it as a bookmark in your web browser. To do this, simply click on the shortened link to open it in a new tab. Then, click on the "Bookmark" or "Add to Favorites" option in your browser's menu. You can choose a folder to save the bookmark in and give it a name for easy reference.

With these export options, you can easily store and use the shortened link you've created using the steps outlined in this guide. Whether you choose to copy and paste the link or save it as a bookmark, you'll have quick access to the shortened version whenever you need it.

Q&A:

How can I make a long link shorter?

There are several methods to make a long link shorter. One option is to use a URL shortening service, such as Bitly or TinyURL. These services allow you to input your long link and generate a shorter, more manageable URL. Another option is to use a redirect or forwarding feature provided by your website hosting service or a content management system (CMS) platform. This allows you to create a shorter, more user-friendly link that automatically redirects to the longer link.

Are there any advantages to using shortened links?

Yes, there are several advantages to using shortened links. Firstly, they are easier to share and remember compared to long and complex URLs. Shortened links also take up less space when used in social media posts, emails, or other forms of communication. Additionally, some URL shortening services offer tracking and analytics features, allowing you to monitor the performance and engagement of your links.

Is it possible to customize a shortened link?

Yes, many URL shortening services allow you to customize the shortened link to some extent. This typically involves adding a few characters or words to the end of the shortened URL. However, keep in mind that the availability of customization varies depending on the service you use. Some may offer more customization options than others.

Can I revert a shortened link back to its original URL?

No, once a link has been shortened, it is not possible to revert it back to its original URL. This is because the process of shortening a link involves generating a completely new and unique address that redirects to the original URL. If you need to share the original URL again, you will need to retrieve it from the original source or generate a new shortened link.

Are there any downsides or risks to using shortened links?

While shortened links can be convenient, there are some downsides and risks to be aware of. Firstly, relying on a URL shortening service means that you are dependent on the service's availability and reliability. If the service goes down or disappears, your shortened links may no longer work. Additionally, there is a potential for abuse and malicious use of shortened links, as they can be used to disguise malicious or phishing URLs. It is important to exercise caution when clicking on shortened links, especially if they come from unknown or suspicious sources.

What are some steps to make a link smaller?

There are several steps you can take to make a link smaller. One option is to use a URL shortening service, which will compress your link into a shorter, more manageable form. Another option is to manually shorten the link by removing unnecessary characters or specifying a specific page instead of a full URL. Additionally, you can use a custom domain to create shorter links that are easy to remember.

Are there any tools or websites that can help me make a link smaller?

Yes, there are several tools and websites available to help you make a link smaller. Some popular URL shortening services include Bitly, TinyURL, and Ow.ly. These services allow you to input a long link and generate a shortened version that you can share more easily. You can also find browser extensions and plugins that provide quick access to URL shortening services, making it even more convenient to create smaller links.