How Should Alt Text Be Written

How Should Alt Text be Written for Websites?

Alt text is an essential component of web page accessibility. It describes images and other visual elements on web pages for visually impaired users who depend on screen readers or other assistive technologies to navigate the web. When designing or updating a website, it is crucial to include high-quality, accurate and descriptive alt text for images. Alt text also helps search engines understand page content, which can improve SEO. In this article, we will explore some best practices for writing alt text to make your website more accessible to all users.

1. Be Descriptive
When writing alt text, focus on providing a detailed and accurate description of the image. The text should convey the same information as the image itself. Avoid using vague or general descriptions that do not add value or context to the image. You can incorporate relevant keywords but avoid keyword stuffing, which may result in penalties or lower rankings by search engines.

2. Keep it Short
Alt text should be concise and to the point. Avoid long strings of text that can overwhelm or confuse users, especially those using screen readers. The optimal length for alt text is typically under 125 characters. If the image is complex or contains multiple elements, consider breaking the text into smaller, more manageable phrases.

3. Use Proper Punctuation and Capitalization
Alt text should be grammatically correct and well-written, just like any other text on a web page. Use proper punctuation and capitalization to ensure that the text is easy to read and understand. Avoid using all caps or excessive punctuation that can be distracting or hard to process for users.

4. Avoid Repetition
If an image appears multiple times on the same page, avoid using the same alt text for each instance. Instead, use descriptive but distinct text that provides context for each instance. For example, if you have a product image that appears on multiple pages, use different alt text for each instance that reflects the specific page content.

By following these best practices, you can ensure that your website is accessible to all users, including those with disabilities. Alt text is a critical component of web design that can improve usability, accessibility, and SEO. Remember to keep it concise, descriptive, well-written, and properly punctuated to maximize its value.