How to Write Alt Text in WordPress for Accessibility

As a content creator or website owner, it’s vital to ensure that all your visitors, including those with disabilities, can access your website content. One of the ways to accomplish this is by adding alt text to your images in WordPress. Alt text (alternative text) refers to a brief description of an image that is read by screen readers and used to convey the content of the image when it cannot be seen.

Why is Alt Text Essential?

Alt text is crucial for several reasons:

1. Makes Images Accessible

   Alt text enables visually impaired users to access the content of images that they may not otherwise be able to see. Screen readers use alt text to read out the image’s content, allowing the user to understand what it represents.

2. Improves SEO

   Search engines rely on alt text to understand the content of an image. By writing descriptive alt text, you can improve your website’s ranking on search engines.

3. Complies with Legal Requirements

   In many countries, accessibility is a legal requirement. By adding alt text to your images, your website is more likely to comply with accessibility laws.

How to Write Alt Text in WordPress

Follow these steps to add alt text to your images in WordPress:

1. Add an Image to Your Post or Page

   The first step is to add an image to your post or page. You can upload an image from your computer or choose an existing image from your media library.

2. Click on the Image

   Click on the image to select it. You should see a toolbar appear at the top of the screen.

3. Click on the Edit Button

   Click on the edit button on the toolbar. This will open the image editor.

4. Add Alt Text

   In the image editor, you should see a field labeled “Alt Text”. This is where you can add your alt text. Write a brief but descriptive sentence that explains what the image is showing.

   Remember that the purpose of alt text is to describe the content of the image. It’s not necessary to include the file name or image type (e.g., “headshot.jpg” or “photo of a dog”).

5. Save Your Changes

   After adding your alt text, click on the “Update” button to save your changes.

Tips for Writing Effective Alt Text

Here are a few tips to help you write effective alt text:

1. Be Concise: Keep your alt text brief and to the point. Try to convey the content of the image in just a few words.

2. Be Descriptive: Use clear and descriptive language to explain what the image represents. Think about what someone would miss if they couldn’t see the image.

3. Avoid Keyword Stuffing: Avoid stuffing your alt text with keywords. Instead, focus on providing a clear description of the image.

4. Use Proper Punctuation: Use proper punctuation in your alt text to make it easier for screen readers to read out loud.

5. Think About the Context: Consider the context in which the image is being used. For example, if the image is part of a larger article, the alt text should provide a brief summary of the article.

Final Thoughts

Adding alt text to your images is a crucial step in making your website more accessible to all users. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can make your website more inclusive and improve your SEO rankings. Remember to keep your alt text brief, descriptive, and focused on the content of the image.