What is an Alternative Text?
Alternative text, commonly known as “Alt Text,” “Alt Attributes,” “Alt Descriptions,” or “Alt Tags,” is a fundamental principle of accessibility support. Alt text provides descriptive information about images, ensuring that students, staff, and faculty with visual impairments receive the same content as those who can see the image.
Writing effective alt-text is more of an art than a strict formula, as there is no single way to craft it perfectly. This guide will highlight key concepts to consider and offer practical guidance on writing clear, meaningful alt-text for accessibility.
Importance of Alternative Text and Where to Apply It
Alternative text (alt-text) plays a crucial role in digital accessibility by explaining why an image is relevant to the content. Screen reading software reads alt-text aloud, allowing users with visual impairments to understand the context and purpose of the image.
Most digital content and websites support alt-text, ensuring that descriptions remain intact when exported to HTML or PDF. To maintain accessibility, always provide clear and meaningful alt-text for the following elements:
- Shapes
- Pictures
- Charts
- Diagrams
- SmartArt
- Clip Art
- Tables
- Screenshots
- All Other Objects
Adding Alternative Text to Images in a Word Document
- Create a Word document.
- Add the photo you want to include.
- Right click on the photo and select "View Alt Text..."
- Add your description of the photo. Make sure the description relays the message needed.
- Sometimes, Word will automatically generate a description. Review the auto-generated alt-text to ensure it accurately conveys the intended message.
- Check the “Mark as Decorative” box if the image is purely decorative.
Watch a Quick Guide: Adding Alt Text in a Word Document
Learn how to add alt-text to images in a Word document with this quick video guide. This tutorial will help you ensure accessibility by providing clear and meaningful image descriptions for all users.