What is the correct syntax for external links in HTML?

The correct syntax for external links in HTML involves using a full URL enclosed in quotes. This ensures that the browser can accurately interpret the link and navigate to the intended web page. The syntax typically looks like this:

<a href="https://www.example.com">Link Text</a>

In this format, href is an attribute of the anchor tag <a>, and it specifies the destination of the link. The use of quotes is important, as it clearly delineates the URL as a single entity, allowing for the inclusion of various characters without confusion.

Other options might refer to different types of URL syntax but do not accurately represent the full requirement for external links in HTML. For example, a relative path URL does not provide the complete web address and is not suitable for linking to resources that are hosted on different domains. An absolute path would be strictly defined to reference files within the same domain or directory structure, and a generic link format would lack the specificity needed for a functional external link.