Alt text

Definition

Alt text, or alternative text, is a description of an image that is used in HTML code to provide context and information about the image when it cannot be displayed. This helps improve accessibility for visually impaired users who rely on screen readers, and it also enhances searchability by allowing search engines to understand the content of images better.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Alt text should be concise, typically between 5 to 15 words, and accurately describe the image without being overly detailed.
2. Using relevant keywords in alt text can improve the SEO of a webpage, helping it rank higher in search engine results.
3. It is important to avoid using phrases like 'image of' or 'picture of' as they do not add value to the description.
4. Properly implemented alt text can enhance user experience by providing context for images that fail to load due to poor internet connection or other issues.
5. Alt text is not just beneficial for SEO but is essential for compliance with accessibility standards such as the WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines).

Review Questions

• How does alt text contribute to making digital content more accessible for users with disabilities?
  • Alt text plays a crucial role in making digital content accessible for visually impaired users by providing descriptive information about images. Screen readers read aloud the alt text, enabling users to understand the content and context of images that they cannot see. This ensures that all users have equal access to information and enhances the overall user experience on websites.
• Discuss the relationship between alt text and search engine optimization. How can effective use of alt text improve a website's visibility online?
  • The relationship between alt text and search engine optimization lies in how search engines interpret images. Effective use of alt text allows search engines to understand the context and content of images, which can significantly improve a website's visibility in search results. By including relevant keywords in the alt text, websites can enhance their chances of being indexed properly and appearing higher on search engine result pages, ultimately driving more traffic.
• Evaluate the impact of well-written alt text on both user experience and SEO practices in digital content creation. What are the long-term benefits?
  • Well-written alt text has a positive impact on both user experience and SEO practices in digital content creation. For users, clear and concise alt text provides important context when images cannot be displayed or accessed, enhancing overall engagement with the content. From an SEO perspective, optimized alt text can boost visibility in search engines, leading to increased traffic over time. Long-term benefits include improved accessibility compliance, greater audience reach, and a stronger online presence due to better search rankings.

Related terms

Accessibility: The design of products, devices, services, or environments to be usable by people with disabilities.

SEO (Search Engine Optimization): The practice of improving the ranking of a website or content in search engine results through various techniques and strategies.

Image Optimization: The process of improving the quality and performance of images for web use, including size reduction and format selection.