As you use evaluation tools like CAST's Bobby to check the accessibility of your pages, you'll find many references to ALT text. What is it, and what is appropriate alt text?

ALT text appears in a little box when you mouse over an image. It appears in place of the image when the image does not load, or if you are using a text-only browser. It is the "audible picture" for those using text readers. ALT text can be a useful tool to make your page accessible, or an annoying feature of your design.

Any image you use in your design contributes to the overall message of your work. Whatever that image conveys should
be in the ALT text. Try these images:

Which ALT text do you like best?

Read more about ALT text and its uses in an excellent piece by Alan Flavell of the Web Design Group.

Some unfortunate uses of ALT text (learn from others' missteps). This is also from Alan Flavell.

Download a trial version of a text reader and listen to your pages...what do you sound like?

Last Update: September 2006

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