What is Alt Text (Alternative Text)?

Alt Text, short for Alternative Text, is a descriptive text attribute in HTML used within image tags to describe the appearance or function of an image. The primary benefit of using Alt Text is its ability to improve accessibility for visually impaired users who rely on screen readers. Additionally, Alt Text enhances SEO by providing search engines with context about the image content, which can improve image search rankings.

How Does Alt Text Work?

Alt Text works by being embedded in the HTML code of a webpage. When an image fails to load, the Alt Text appears in its place, providing context. Screen readers use Alt Text to convey image information to users who can’t see the images. For search engines, Alt Text helps index images properly, aiding in search results.

Why Alt Text Matters for SEO

Simply put, Alt Text is crucial for SEO because it helps search engines understand image content, improving image-based search results. It also contributes to better user experience, which is a ranking factor. According to Moz, images with descriptive Alt Text can lead to a 30% increase in search visibility.

Common Use Cases / When to Use Alt Text

Alt Text should be used for all images, especially those that convey key content or are linked. This includes product photos on e-commerce sites like Amazon, infographics, and any image that contains text. By using Alt Text, you ensure that your content is accessible to all users.

Best Practices for Alt Text

Here’s the thing: crafting effective Alt Text requires specificity and brevity. Describe the image in a concise manner, using keywords naturally. Avoid keyword stuffing. For example, instead of saying “image of dog,” use “Golden Retriever playing in the park.”

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Let’s be honest, not all Alt Text is created equal. Avoid vague descriptions like “image” or “photo.” Don’t use Alt Text for decorative images that don’t add value. And never stuff keywords—it’s ineffective and can harm your SEO.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of Alt Text?

Alt Text provides a text alternative for images on the web, aiding accessibility and enhancing SEO by describing image content to search engines.

How long should Alt Text be?

Alt Text should be concise, ideally under 125 characters, to ensure compatibility with most screen readers.

Can Alt Text improve search rankings?

Yes, Alt Text can improve search rankings by providing search engines with more context about the image, thus enhancing image search visibility.

Should all images have Alt Text?

Most images should have Alt Text, especially those that convey important information or are used as links. Decorative images may not require it.

Key Takeaways

  • Alt Text boosts accessibility and SEO by describing images to screen readers and search engines.
  • Write concise, descriptive Alt Text with natural keyword use—no stuffing!
  • Avoid using Alt Text for purely decorative images.
  • Alt Text should be around 125 characters for optimal screen reader compatibility.