Hypertext allows for non-sequential reading and linking of information. It originated from Vannevar Bush's concept of Memex, which aimed to help people deal with the rapidly increasing amount of information. Hypertext enables users to explore and access any available information without starting from the first document. Hypermedia expanded this concept by allowing links between text, graphics, sound, and other media. Key benefits of hypertext include ease of tracing references, creating new references, and structuring, accessing, and collaborating on information in flexible ways. However, orientation within the non-linear network can be challenging for users. Hypertext has many applications, such as in business, education, and personal learning.