What is Alt Text (Alternative Text)?
TL;DR
Alt text is a short description of an image that appears in the image's HTML tag.
Definition
Alt text is a short description of an image that appears in the image's HTML tag. It serves two purposes: accessibility for visually impaired users and context for search engines and AI systems that cannot 'see' images.
Why It Matters
Alt text helps AI systems understand what your images depict, which contributes to your overall entity and content context. It also improves accessibility, which is a trust and quality signal.
Examples
- An image of a dental office with alt text: 'Modern dental clinic reception area with comfortable seating and natural light'
- A photo of a team with alt text: 'The dental team at [Practice Name] - three dentists and two hygienists in professional attire'
Frequently Asked Questions
What is alt text?
Alt text (alternative text) is a short description of an image in the image's HTML tag. It serves two purposes: accessibility for visually impaired users and context for search engines and AI systems that cannot 'see' images.
Does alt text help with SEO?
Yes. Alt text helps search engines and AI systems understand what your images depict, contributing to your overall entity and content context. It also improves accessibility, which is a trust and quality signal.
How do I write good alt text?
Describe the image clearly and concisely. Include relevant keywords naturally where appropriate. Avoid keyword stuffing. Be specific: 'Modern dental clinic reception area with comfortable seating' is better than 'dental office photo.'
Related Terms
