What is Alt Text?

Alt Text (Alternative Text) is a compact description added to an image’s HTML code. This text allows search engines to understand the content of images and provides a textual alternative for users when images cannot be displayed.

Think of it as a vital tool that bridges the gap between visual content and textual information, ensuring your content is accessible to all users, including those with visual impairments.

Why is Alt Text Important?

Alt Text plays a critical role in both accessibility and SEO. For accessibility, it enables screen readers to describe images to visually impaired users, ensuring an inclusive web experience.

From an SEO perspective, Alt Text helps search engines index your images correctly, improving your site’s visibility in search results. Properly optimized Alt Text can enhance your image search rankings and drive additional traffic to your site.

How to Write Alt Text?

Writing effective Alt Text involves being descriptive yet concise. Here are some tips:

  • Be Specific: Describe the image accurately and succinctly. For instance, instead of “dog,” use “golden retriever playing in the park.”
  • Include Keywords: Incorporate relevant keywords naturally without keyword stuffing. Ensure the text reads naturally and provides value.
  • Avoid Redundancy: Don’t repeat information already provided in the surrounding text. Alt Text should add context, not duplicate content.

How to Integrate Alt Text to Your Images?

Adding Alt Text varies depending on the platform you’re using. Here’s a general guide:

  • HTML Code: Add the alt attribute within the image tag. Example: <img src=”image.jpg” alt=” Description of the image”>.
  • Content Management Systems (CMS): Most CMS platforms like WordPress have fields for Alt Text in the image upload section. Simply enter your descriptive text in the provided field.

Best Practices for Alt Text

  • Keep It Short: Aim for 125 characters or less. This length is optimal for screen readers.
  • Use Natural Language: Write Alt Text as if you’re describing the image to someone who cannot see it.
  • Relevance Over Keywords: While keywords are important, the primary goal is to describe the image meaningfully.
  • Test with Screen Readers: Ensure your Alt Text works well with screen readers to verify its effectiveness for accessibility.