In the realm of web accessibility, alternative text holds the key to unlocking the “why” behind an image’s presence within a document or webpage.
As accessibility specialists and experts, we recognize the crucial role of alternative text in making images accessible to individuals with visual impairments. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the concept of alternative text, its significance, and when to utilize it (e.g., images with captions). Expert tips on how to write effective alternative text that truly enhances accessibility are also provided.
What is Alternative Text?
Alternative text is a fundamental accessibility feature that provides a textual description of an image. It serves as a substitute for the image itself, conveying its meaning and context when the image cannot be seen. Screen readers, which are assistive technologies used by people with visual impairments, rely on alternative text to audibly describe images, enabling them to comprehend the visual content through spoken words.
Image source: www.freepik.com
When Should You Use Alternative Text?
1.Decorative Images: Alternative text should be omitted for images that are purely decorative and do not provide meaning or convey essential information. By excluding alternative text for such images, we allow screen readers to focus on meaningful information rather than burdening users with irrelevant details.
2.Images Including Captions: Despite the presence of captions, it is crucial to provide alternative text for images. Captions may not always be accessible or visible to all users, and alternative text ensures that individuals who cannot access the caption still gain a comprehensive understanding of the image’s context and message.
3.Images with Information Not in Text: Alternative text becomes especially important when an image contains information that is not present elsewhere in the content. For instance, infographics, diagrams, or signs that convey vital information should have alternative text descriptions to ensure that all users, regardless of visual capabilities, can access and understand the information.
How to Write Good Alternative Text:
1.Be Descriptive, Yet Concise: Craft alternative text that accurately describes the image while maintaining conciseness. Focus on capturing the essential elements, purpose, and context of the image, avoiding unnecessary or excessive details that could overwhelm users.
2.Provide Context: Consider the image’s context within the surrounding content. Describe how the image relates to the overall message or story being conveyed. By providing context, users can understand the image’s significance even if they cannot visually perceive it.
3.Utilize Keywords and Phrases: Incorporate relevant keywords and phrases into your alternative text to enhance search engine optimization (SEO) while ensuring that the description remains clear and relevant. Prioritize clarity and relevance over keyword stuffing, as the primary goal is to enhance accessibility, not just visibility.
4.Indicate Decorative Images: When an image is purely decorative and does not convey meaningful information, it is best to describe the decorative nature within the alternative text. This helps screen readers differentiate between images that require detailed descriptions and those that can be skipped to provide a smoother reading experience.
In Conclusion
Alternative text is a powerful accessibility feature that ensures images are accessible to individuals with visual impairments. By implementing alternative text appropriately and following best practices, we can create a more inclusive digital environment where everyone can access and comprehend the information conveyed through visual content. In doing so, we prioritize accessibility and make a positive impact by crafting effective alternative text descriptions that enhance inclusivity for all users.
