How Long Should Image Alt Text Be

What is Alt Text?

Alt text, also known as “alternative text” or “alt tag,” is an HTML attribute used to describe the content of an image on a webpage. Alt text plays an important role in web accessibility for individuals who are visually impaired or rely on assistive technologies such as screen readers. Alt text is essential for helping these users understand the purpose and content of an image on a page.

How Long Should Image Alt Text Be?

The length of image alt text is a common question among web designers and developers. While there is no hard and fast rule on how long your alt text should be, it is generally recommended to keep it concise and descriptive. Ideally, your alt text should be no longer than 125 characters. If you need to provide more detailed information about the image, consider including it in the surrounding text on the page.

It’s important to keep in mind that alt text should accurately and succinctly describe the image it’s associated with. Avoid using irrelevant or misleading information that does not reflect the content of the image. Also, avoid keyword stuffing as this is not only unethical but also leads to a poor user experience. A good rule of thumb is to imagine you are describing the image to someone who cannot see it. This will help you craft the most appropriate alt text for the image.

In conclusion, image alt text is an essential aspect of web design that should not be overlooked. It helps ensure that all users, regardless of their abilities, can understand the content of an image on a webpage. While there is no set length for alt text, it should be descriptive and concise, ideally under 125 characters. Always keep in mind the purpose of the image and use language that accurately reflects its content.