Another difficulty for authors is the tension between providing choice in reading, and keeping the text as a coherent whole. Traditional linear texts are relatively easy to design since they have little choice in the natural reading sequence, and usually flow simply from beginning to end. The reader has the expectation that if they deviate from the recognised sequence, they may run into trouble and have to backtrack to regain the argument.

In a hypertext, the reader expects to be able to move freely within the text, and the document must still be coherent with a logical flow despite this. Here again, a hierarchical structure will help the reader to maintain a grasp of the text, and will at least help in backtracking or deeper investigation in order to clarify misunderstood points.