What is alt text, and how does it impact SEO?
Alt text, or alternative text, is a descriptive text attribute that can be added to an HTML image tag. Alt text provides information about the content and context of an image and is used to describe the image to users who may not be able to see it, such as those who use screen readers or have slow internet connections. In this article, we will discuss what alt text is, why it is important for SEO, and how to use it effectively. Contact us to learn more about gilbert seo
What is Alt Text?
Alt text is a text attribute that can be added to an HTML image tag. It provides a description of the image for users who cannot see it, either because they are using a screen reader or because the image has not loaded. Alt text is also used by search engines to understand the content of an image and to index it correctly.
Why is Alt Text Important for SEO?
Alt text is important for SEO for several reasons:
- Accessibility: Alt text is crucial for making websites accessible to users with disabilities. Screen readers use alt text to describe images to users who cannot see them, making websites more accessible for visually impaired users.
- Image Optimization: Alt text provides an opportunity to optimize images for search engines. By including relevant keywords in alt text, website owners can improve the relevance and authority of their images.
- Improved User Experience: Alt text can help to improve the user experience by providing a description of the image for users who cannot see it. This helps to make the content more understandable and engaging for all users.
How to Use Alt Text Effectively?
To use alt text effectively, follow these best practices:
- Be Descriptive: Alt text should be descriptive and provide a clear description of the content and context of the image. Avoid using generic terms like “image” or “picture” and instead provide a detailed description of the image.
- Keep it Concise: Alt text should be concise and to the point. Avoid including irrelevant information or stuffing the alt text with keywords.
- Use Relevant Keywords: Include relevant keywords in the alt text, but use them naturally and in a way that makes sense to users. Avoid keyword stuffing and focus on providing a clear and accurate description of the image.
- Be Consistent: Use alt text consistently throughout the website. This helps to provide a consistent user experience and makes it easier for search engines to understand the content of the website.
- Don’t Use Alt Text for Decorative Images: Alt text should only be used for images that provide content and context. Avoid using alt text for decorative images or images that do not provide any information.
Conclusion:
Alt text is an important HTML attribute that provides a description of images for users who cannot see them. Alt text is also used by search engines to understand the content of an image and to index it correctly. By following these best practices, website owners can use alt text effectively to improve their search engine rankings, make their websites more accessible, and provide a better user experience for all users.