Adding Alternative Text to Images - A Complete Guide

Alternative text (alt text) is essential for image accessibility and SEO. When properly implemented, it helps screen readers describe images to visually impaired users and allows search engines to better understand image content.

Key Best Practices:

• Keep descriptions clear and concise (under 12 words)
• Use complete sentences without hyphens
• Include relevant keywords naturally
• Omit unnecessary words like "image of" or "photo"
• Focus on describing the image's key elements

Adding Alt Text to Different Content Types:

Basic Images:

• File names serve as default alt text if none is specified
• Update file names in the asset library for better defaults

Image Blocks:

• Access through Content tab
• Enter up to 250 characters
• Alt text required for screen reader recognition

Gallery and Automated Layouts:

• Gallery descriptions automatically become alt text
• For automated layouts, edit through Content tab
• Enable "Show image" in Elements tab if needed

Special Cases:

Site Logo:

• Site title automatically serves as alt text

Blog/Event Featured Images:

• Post/event titles function as alt text

Product Images:

• Add up to 200 characters
• Product name used as default
• Edit through product metadata

Email Campaigns:

• Available for images, blog posts, and products
• Cannot add alt text to campaign headers

Background Images:

• No direct alt text support
• Use image blocks as alternative
• Custom code solutions available but unsupported

Remember: Alt text is crucial for both accessibility and SEO. Prioritize clear, descriptive text that helps users understand the image's purpose and content.

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