Alt Tags

What are Alt Tags?

Alt tags, also known as "alt descriptions" or "alt attributes," are HTML attributes used to provide alternative text for images on a web page. They play a crucial role in both search engine optimization (SEO) and web accessibility. Alt tags help search engines understand the content of an image, and they improve accessibility for users who have visual impairments or are using browsers that cannot display images.

In HTML, an alt tag is added to the image tag like this: . The alt text should be a concise, descriptive text that accurately reflects the content of the image. It's important for the text to be relevant to the image and to include keywords relevant to the page where the image is displayed. This enhances the understanding of both the image and the webpage for search engines, aiding in SEO.

Do Alt Tags Improve SEO?

Yes, alt tags can significantly improve SEO. They provide search engines with contextual information about the images on a webpage, which can help the page rank in image search results. Alt tags also contribute to the overall relevancy and context of the page, which can benefit its ranking in traditional search results.

When Not to Use Alt Tags?

Alt tags should be used on all images that convey meaning or information. However, if an image is purely decorative and adds no informational value to the page (like stylistic borders), it can be marked with an empty alt attribute (alt=""). This approach tells screen readers to ignore the image, improving the browsing experience for users who rely on assistive technologies.

How Do I Optimize Alt Tags?

To optimize alt tags:

1. Be Descriptive: Clearly describe the image. If it's a product, mention the product name and relevant features.
2. Keep It Concise: Alt text should be brief yet descriptive. Aim for a balance between informativeness and brevity.
3. Use Keywords Wisely: Include keywords that are relevant to the image and page content, but avoid keyword stuffing.
4. Context Matters: Ensure the alt text makes sense within the context of the page content.

Are Alt Tags Still Important?

Yes, alt tags are still very important. They are a fundamental component of web accessibility, ensuring that all users, regardless of visual ability, can understand the content of images. From an SEO perspective, alt tags contribute to a better understanding of the page by search engines, which can positively impact the page's visibility and ranking. Therefore, the proper use of alt tags is beneficial both for user experience and SEO.