What's the right alt text to use? (alternative text)
Posted: Mon Jul 22, 2013 11:00 am
I was reviewing the HTML5 specification and read sections regarding alternate text for images (using the "alt" attribute):
http://www.w3.org/TR/html5/embedded-content-0.html#alt
It's not as easy as it might seem. There are cases when it should be an empty string, when it shouldn't, and when the "alt" attribute should be left out completely (rare).
I think it should also be stressed that "alt" text is replacement text for the image, not supplemental text, like what can be provided with the "title" attribute.
It should not repeat prose that is right next to it (in this case alt="" may be appropriate).
The "alt" attribute should only be omitted when no alternative text is available and none can be made available. Omitting the "alt" attribute is different than alt="", where the alternative text is an empty string.
There are good examples as well. I would suggest reviewing that section of the specification (4.8.1.1).
Also, keep in mind that using good alternative text may also help with SEO.
http://www.w3.org/TR/html5/embedded-content-0.html#alt
It's not as easy as it might seem. There are cases when it should be an empty string, when it shouldn't, and when the "alt" attribute should be left out completely (rare).
I think it should also be stressed that "alt" text is replacement text for the image, not supplemental text, like what can be provided with the "title" attribute.
It should not repeat prose that is right next to it (in this case alt="" may be appropriate).
The "alt" attribute should only be omitted when no alternative text is available and none can be made available. Omitting the "alt" attribute is different than alt="", where the alternative text is an empty string.
There are good examples as well. I would suggest reviewing that section of the specification (4.8.1.1).
Also, keep in mind that using good alternative text may also help with SEO.