What is Alt Text?
Alt text (short for alternative text) is a written description of an image that is added to the HTML code of a web page. It allows screen readers and other assistive technologies to convey the content and purpose of visual elements to users who are blind or visually impaired.
Example:
<img src="event.jpg" alt="Team celebrating Accessibility Day with balloons and banners">
If the image fails to load or a user relies on a screen reader, this description ensures they still understand what the image represents.
Why Alt Text Matters in Web Accessibility
Alt text plays a crucial role in web accessibility and is required under international standards like:
- WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) – Alt text is a Level A requirement.
- ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) – U.S. law enforces accessible design, including proper image descriptions.
- BFSG (Barrierefreiheitsstärkungsgesetz) – Germany's accessibility law, aligned with WCAG, also emphasizes the need for accessible visual content.
Without alternative text, users relying on assistive tech are left in the dark—literally—when it comes to understanding images, graphics, icons, and infographics.
Alt text bridges the gap between visual content and inclusive experiences.
How to Use Alt Text Effectively (For TYPO3, WordPress & More)
Whether you're using TYPO3, WordPress, or any CMS, here are implementation tips:
- Write concise, meaningful descriptions – Describe what’s important. For example, for a logo: alt="NITSAN TYPO3 Agency logo"
- Use built-in fields – TYPO3 and WordPress have dedicated alt text fields in media libraries—use them!
- Decorative images? Use empty alt – For purely decorative visuals, use alt="" so screen readers skip them.
- Functional images – If an image is a button or link, describe its function, not just its appearance (e.g., alt="Download the brochure").
- Use automation tools carefully – Some plugins attempt auto-description, but always review for clarity and context.
Common Mistakes & Misconceptions
Let’s correct some frequent errors:
❌ “Alt text is optional.”
✔️ No, it's essential for accessibility compliance and SEO.
❌ “Just say ‘image’ or ‘photo.’”
✔️ Not helpful. Be specific: “Woman using a laptop with a guide dog by her side.”
❌ “Alt text boosts SEO, so stuff it with keywords.”
✔️ Alt text can support SEO, but keyword stuffing harms accessibility and violates WCAG best practices.
❌ “I can skip alt text for complex infographics.”
✔️ Even complex visuals need text alternatives, summaries or longer descriptions linked nearby.
Explore related glossary entries: Web Accessibility, Screen Reader, ARIA Labels
Key Takeaway
Alt text isn't just about compliance, it’s about communication.
It makes your website more inclusive, understandable, and searchable. Whether you're uploading a product image, a blog banner, or a button icon, always ask: “How would I describe this to someone who can’t see it?”
Want to Master Accessible Content?
Check out our Alt Text Best Practices Guide or explore the T3AA Accessibility Analyzer to evaluate your site’s image accessibility.
Build for all. Describe what matters. Make every image count.