Alt Attributes, alternatively known as alt text, alt tags, or alt descriptions, is text a browser loads in place of a missing image when it cannot be displayed on a webpage. This descriptive text aids screen-reading tools in narrating images to visually impaired users and enhances the ability of search engines to index and evaluate your website's content.
It's generally advisable to include alt text for most images on a webpage to benefit SEO, UX, and accessibility. However, there are instances where exceptions apply. Images serving purely decorative purposes or those adequately described in nearby text should have an empty alt attribute. For a comprehensive guide on when to include alt text and when not to, explore this decision tree.
Writing a good alt image tag involves crafting a concise and descriptive summary of the image content while considering both accessibility and SEO. It's important to accurately describe the image's content and purpose using relevant keywords without overloading with unnecessary information. Keep the alt text brief, under 125 characters ideally, while focusing on the most significant aspects of the image. Ensure the alt text provides context and meaning for users who rely on screen readers or have images disabled, while avoiding redundancy if the surrounding text already adequately describes the image. Regular testing and updates are essential to maintain the accuracy and effectiveness of alt image tags over time.
