An image alt tag, short for alternative text tag, is a short written description that explains what an image shows on a webpage. While it may seem like a small detail, alt tags play a big role in how your website performs – both for users and for search engines.
An image alt tag provides a text alternative to an image. If an image fails to load because of a slow connection or a broken link, the alt text appears in its place, giving users an idea of what they were supposed to see. Think of it as a short caption that stands in for the image when the image itself isn’t visible.
For example, if you upload a product photo of a blue ceramic coffee mug, a good alt tag might read:
“Blue ceramic coffee mug on wooden table.”
This description gives context to both users and search engines about what the image represents.
Why Are Alt Tags Important?
- Accessibility for All Users
Alt tags are essential for web accessibility. Screen readers, tools used by people who are visually impaired, rely on alt text to describe what’s on a page. When alt tags are written clearly, they make websites more inclusive and compliant with accessibility standards like the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG).
- SEO and Image Search Optimization
Search engines can’t “see” images the way humans do. They rely on text to understand what an image shows. That’s where your alt tag comes in. Well-written alt tags help Google identify and index your images, making it more likely that your content appears in image searches, and boosting your overall page ranking in the process.
- Better User Experience
Sometimes images fail to load due to connection issues or technical errors. Alt tags act as a fallback, ensuring visitors still understand the content even without the visual element. It’s a small touch that maintains professionalism and clarity.
Best Practices for Writing Alt Tags
- Be descriptive but concise. Describe the key details without being overly wordy.
- Use keywords naturally. Include relevant keywords only if they fit naturally; avoid keyword stuffing.
- Avoid phrases like “image of” or “picture of.” Screen readers already know it’s an image.
- Focus on context. Describe what matters most in relation to the content around it.
- Visit our post on Good vs. Bad Alt Tag examples.
An image alt tag is more than just a technical requirement; it’s a tool that enhances accessibility, improves SEO, and creates a better experience for all users. Taking a few extra seconds to write meaningful alt text ensures your images work harder for your site’s visibility and inclusivity.