Alt text

Definition

Alt text, or alternative text, is a descriptive text that accompanies an image on a webpage, serving to explain the content of the image for those who cannot see it. It is essential for accessibility, allowing visually impaired users to understand visual content through screen readers. Additionally, alt text plays a vital role in search engine optimization, as search engines rely on it to index images and understand their relevance in relation to written content.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Alt text should be concise yet descriptive, usually around 125 characters, to ensure clarity while not overwhelming the reader.
2. Effective alt text can improve a webpage's SEO by including relevant keywords that help search engines understand the context of images.
3. Using alt text correctly can boost user engagement by providing context to images that complement written content, making the experience more cohesive.
4. Alt text is not just for accessibility; it also serves as a placeholder when images fail to load, giving users an idea of what should be there.
5. Social media platforms often use alt text to enhance image sharing and accessibility, making it crucial for digital marketing strategies.

Review Questions

• How does alt text enhance the accessibility of online content for users with disabilities?
  • Alt text enhances accessibility by providing descriptive information about images for users who cannot see them. Screen readers read aloud the alt text, allowing visually impaired individuals to understand the visual content on a webpage. This ensures that all users can access and comprehend information equally, regardless of their ability to view images.
• In what ways can alt text contribute to improved SEO for a website?
  • Alt text can significantly contribute to SEO by helping search engines index images more effectively. When relevant keywords are included in the alt text, search engines can better understand the context of the images in relation to the surrounding content. This increased understanding can lead to higher rankings in search results, improving the overall visibility of the website.
• Evaluate the impact of using effective alt text on user engagement and overall content experience.
  • Effective alt text can greatly enhance user engagement by providing context and relevance to images alongside written content. When users encounter well-crafted alt text, they are more likely to connect with the material as it creates a cohesive experience between visuals and text. Additionally, when images fail to load or are viewed by individuals using screen readers, alt text ensures that users still receive meaningful information, maintaining their interest and comprehension of the content.

Related terms

Accessibility: The practice of making content usable for people with disabilities, ensuring equal access to information and functionality.

SEO (Search Engine Optimization): A set of strategies aimed at improving the visibility and ranking of a website or content in search engine results.

Screen Reader: Assistive technology that reads aloud text displayed on a computer screen, enabling visually impaired users to access digital content.