Alt Text
Definition
Text description added to images that helps search engines understand image content and provides accessibility for screen reader users.
What is Alt Text?
Alt text (alternative text) is a written description of an image added to the HTML code. It serves two purposes: helping search engines understand images and providing descriptions for people using screen readers.
Why Alt Text Matters
SEO Benefits
Google can't "see" images. Alt text tells search engines what an image shows, helping your images appear in image search results.
Accessibility
Screen readers read alt text aloud for visually impaired users. Without it, they have no idea what your images show.
Broken Images
If an image fails to load, the alt text appears instead.
Writing Good Alt Text
Be Descriptive
Describe what the image actually shows.
ā "Image" or "Photo" ā "Team meeting in modern office with laptops"
Include Keywords Naturally
If relevant, include your target keyword ā but don't force it.
ā "SEO services SEO company SEO experts" ā "SEO team analysing website performance data"
Keep It Concise
Aim for under 125 characters. Screen readers may cut off longer text.
Don't Start with "Image of"
Screen readers already announce it's an image.
When to Skip Alt Text
Decorative images that add no meaning (borders, spacers) can have empty alt text (alt=""). This tells screen readers to skip them.
Checking Alt Text
Right-click an image ā Inspect to see its alt attribute. SEO tools can audit your site for missing alt text.