Alt Text for SEO
What is Alt Text for?
Alt text boosts SEO and supports web accessibility standards by describing images for search engines and visually impaired users. It's a simple way to improve visibility while making your site inclusive.
Alt Text for SEO Optimisation
Alt text is a simple way to boost your SEO while making your website more user-friendly. It tells search engines what your images are about, which can help your site show up more often in searches. Plus, by adding clear, keyword-rich descriptions, you make your content easier to find and more accessible for everyone. It’s an easy win for both your visitors and your SEO strategy!
Keep Descriptions Short and Simple
When learning how to write alt text, keep it short but descriptive. Aim for 120 characters when possible, focusing on what’s essential for users and context. Overly detailed descriptions can overwhelm screen reader users, while too little detail might miss the image’s purpose. Prioritise alt text accessibility by using plain, clear language. For example, “woman sitting on a park bench” works better than including unnecessary details like scenery unless it's relevant.
Include Keywords in Alt Text
Adding keywords to your alt text is a simple way to boost your SEO while keeping your site accessible. For example, if your blog is about “digital marketing trends,” you could write alt text like “chart showing digital marketing trends.” This helps search engines understand your content while making it clear for users relying on screen readers. Keep descriptions short, relevant, and natural—balancing image optimisation with accessibility ensures your site is easy to find and welcoming for everyone!
Avoid using the words ‘image’ or 'graphic.’
When thinking about How to Write Alt Text, there’s no need to use phrases like “image of” in your descriptions—screen readers already let users know it’s an image. For example, instead of hearing “Image: Image of mountain range with sunset,” a user will simply hear “Image: mountain range with sunset,” if the alt text is written well. That said, it can be helpful to mention the type of visual if it adds context. For instance, saying “Screenshot of…” or “Illustration of…” can make things clearer and more helpful for your audience.
In conclusion….
Following this advice will boost your SEO and help ensure your content ranks well with search engines while keeping you compliant with accessibility standards.
To summarise
Boosts your SEO
keep your description short and to the point
Include keywords where possible
Avoid the words ‘image’ and 'graphic’
Be compliant with accessibility standards