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Alt Text

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May 1, 2024 3 minute read

Alt text, also known as alternative text, is a written description of an image that is used by screen readers to convey the information in the image to visually impaired users. It is an important part of making a website accessible to all users, regardless of their ability.

Why is Alt Text important?

Alt text is important for several reasons. First, it provides a way for visually impaired users to access the information in an image. Without alt text, screen readers will not be able to describe the image to the user, and they will miss out on important information. Second, alt text can help improve the search engine optimization (SEO) of a website. Search engines use alt text to understand the content of an image, and they can use this information to rank the website higher in search results.

How to write good Alt Text

Path to Alt Text

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Reading list

We've selected nine books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Alt Text.
This guide provides a step-by-step process for writing effective alt text that is both informative and concise.
Provides a comprehensive overview of universal design for the web, including a chapter on accessible images.
Provides a comprehensive overview of web accessibility, including best practices for writing alt text.
Provides a comprehensive overview of accessible web design, including a chapter on alt text. It practical guide for developers and designers who want to create inclusive websites.
Provides a comprehensive overview of inclusive web design, including a chapter on accessible images.
Goes beyond the basics of web accessibility and provides practical advice on how to create inclusive websites that meet the needs of all users, including those with visual impairments.
Provides a comprehensive overview of autism, including a chapter on the importance of accessible images for people with autism.
This guide provides detailed technical information on how to write alt text that is compliant with web accessibility standards.
This guide provides detailed technical information on how to write alt text that is compliant with web accessibility standards.
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