# Setting Query String Parameters in Links

You can set query string parameters in links to pages by constructing the link URL manually, or by using `<apex:param>` tags within the `<apex:outputLink>` tag. For example, both of the following examples create identical links to an external page:

```visualforce
<apex:outputLink value="http://google.com/search?q={!account.name}">
    Search Google
</apex:outputLink>
```

```visualforce
<apex:outputLink value="http://google.com/search">
    Search Google
    <apex:param name="q" value="{!account.name}"/>
</apex:outputLink>
```

The latter method, which uses `<apex:param>` tags instead of manually creating the URL, is preferable for stylistic reasons.

:::note
In addition to `<apex:outputLink>`, use `<apex:param>` to set request parameters for `<apex:commandLink>`, and `<apex:actionFunction>`.
:::