What is an essential characteristic of a proper hyperlink?

A proper hyperlink fundamentally connects two HTML documents, such as a link that takes you from one webpage to another. This is a core function of hyperlinks, allowing navigation between different resources on the web, whether they are on the same site or external sites.

The definition of a hyperlink encompasses any clickable element that directs users to another page or resource, and this can include text links, image links, or links to files. However, the essence of a hyperlink lies in its purpose: to create a connection between documents, facilitating the flow of information on the internet.

The other choices highlight specific scenarios or characteristics that do not apply to all hyperlinks. For example, a hyperlink does not need to specifically open in a new window, nor must it link only to external sites. Additionally, while hyperlinks can involve images, they certainly do not have to be image links, as many links are simply text-based. Hence, the essential characteristic of a proper hyperlink is its ability to connect two HTML documents.