Alt text is a small piece of text that appears in the source code of your website to describe an image. It helps Google understand what the image is about and can help increase the chances of the image appearing in search results. Image alt text can also turn your images into hyperlinked search results that appear either in Google Images or as image packs. This can result in thousands of more visitors. Users who can’t see an image (because of a disability or page loading issue) will hear or see alt text, which helps provide a better user experience (UX).
How do I write alt text?
You should perform a basic audit of your existing content to see where you can incorporate alt text into previously untagged pictures.
- Image alt text should be specific and representative of the topic of the webpage it’s supporting and should be fewer than 125 characters.
- Don’t start your alt text with “picture of…” or “Image of…” If you work in the interior design field, find ways to add the words “interior design” to the description.
- Don’t add alt text to every image. Decorative elements don’t need alt text.
- Use your keywords sparingly, consider semantic keywords, and don’t cram your keyword into every single image’s alt text.
- Review your alt text like any other content on the page, and add alt text to most images on a webpage for improved SEO, UX, and accessibility.
Good Examples of Alt Text
Image of a red dress on an e-commerce site: the alt text could be “Red sleeveless dress with ruffled hemline.”
Image of a person at their computer: “Web designer adding alt text to images to optimize client website.”
Bad Examples of Alt Text
Image of a red dress on an e-commerce site: Red dress
Image of a person at their computer: “Female typing on computer.”
If you want to grow your business, search engine optimization is an essential part of the equation. By taking the time to develop and implement your SEO strategy, you are investing in your company’s future. Have fun and good luck!
Where do I update alt text in WordPress?
Watch the video to see a quick demo or:
- Go to your Dashboard
- Open Media (left side)
- Select Library
- Click an image and add alt text in the first field
- Go to the next image by using the arrow in the top right.
That’s it!