Alt text

Definition

Alt text, short for alternative text, is a descriptive text that accompanies images on websites, providing context for those unable to see the image. This description not only aids visually impaired users using screen readers but also contributes to search engine optimization (SEO) by allowing search engines to understand the content of images, enhancing visibility in search results. Additionally, well-crafted alt text can improve user engagement by offering meaningful information when images do not load properly.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Alt text should be concise, typically between 5 to 15 words, clearly describing the image's content and purpose without being overly verbose.
2. Effective alt text includes relevant keywords related to the content, which can positively impact SEO by helping search engines index the image accurately.
3. It is important to avoid using phrases like 'image of' or 'picture of' in alt text since screen readers already convey that it is an image.
4. Images that are purely decorative should have empty alt text (alt="") to inform screen readers to skip them, preventing unnecessary clutter in the reading experience.
5. Using relevant and descriptive alt text can enhance user engagement by providing additional context, especially when images fail to load.

Review Questions

• How does alt text improve accessibility for visually impaired users?
  • Alt text improves accessibility by providing descriptive information about images for visually impaired users who rely on screen readers. These tools convert the text into speech, allowing users to understand the content and context of images they cannot see. By including clear and concise alt text, web developers ensure that all users, regardless of their visual ability, can engage with the content effectively.
• In what ways does alt text contribute to SEO and improve a website's visibility in search results?
  • Alt text contributes to SEO by incorporating relevant keywords that search engines use to index images. This optimization helps search engines understand the image content better, which can improve the site's ranking in search results. When images are indexed effectively, it increases the likelihood that users will find the website through image searches, thus driving more organic traffic to the site.
• Evaluate the impact of using descriptive alt text on user engagement and overall website performance.
  • Descriptive alt text positively impacts user engagement by providing context and meaning when images fail to load or when a user cannot see them. When visitors understand what an image represents through well-written alt text, they are more likely to stay engaged with the content. Moreover, since search engines favor sites with effective alt text, this practice can lead to improved website performance through higher search rankings and increased traffic.

Related terms

Accessibility: The practice of making digital content usable for people with disabilities, ensuring that all users can access and benefit from online information.

SEO (Search Engine Optimization): The process of optimizing web content to increase its visibility on search engines, improving the likelihood of attracting organic traffic.

Image Optimization: The process of enhancing image files so that they are smaller in size but retain quality, improving loading times and overall site performance.