Understanding Alternative Text: A Guide to Making Your Content Pop!

Ever uploaded an image online only to think, "Wait, what’s this going to look like for those who can’t see it?" Welcome to the world of alternative text - your secret weapon for making the internet a more inclusive place while also giving your SEO a nice little boost!

What is Alternative Text?

First things first, let’s demystify this term. Alternative text, or "alt text," is a short description added to an image on a website. It serves two main purposes: it provides context to users who can’t see the image (like those with visual impairments) and it helps search engines understand what’s in the image. Yes, search engines can’t see, but they sure can read!

So next time you post a pic of your adorable cat wearing a wizard hat (because who doesn’t have one?), make sure to include some juicy alt text. Instead of just saying "cat in a hat," try something more descriptive like, "A fluffy gray cat sporting a magical wizard hat, ready to cast spells on unsuspecting mice."

The SEO Boost

Still think alt text is just for accessibility? Think again! Including relevant keywords in your alternative text can significantly improve your SEO. Search engines use this text to index your images, which can lead to higher visibility in image searches. That's right, your photos of kittens, sunsets, and your last vacation could soon be a traffic magnet!

How to Write Kick-Ass Alternative Text

Here’s the scoop on how to craft alt text that’s both user-friendly and SEO-savvy:

1. Be Descriptive: Avoid vague descriptions. Be as specific as possible.
2. Keep it Concise: Aim for around 125 characters. You don’t need a novel here!
3. Use Keywords Wisely: If you can naturally include a keyword or two, go for it - but don’t stuff it, or you’ll sound like a spammy robot.
4. Avoid Redundancy: If the image already has a caption, don’t repeat that in the alt text. It’s all about adding value!

Examples of Alternative Text

• Instead of: "Cats"

• Try: "A fluffy calico cat lounging on a sunny windowsill, with a potted plant in the background."

• Instead of: "Party"

• Try: "A vibrant birthday party scene with colorful balloons and a chocolate cake decorated with candles."

The Bottom Line

Implementing alternative text isn’t just about making your content accessible; it's also about giving it a better chance in the search engine arena. So the next time you upload an image, remember: alt text is your friend! With each descriptive phrase you write, you’ll not only be helping those who can’t see the images but also increasing your chances of getting noticed on Google.

So, let’s make the internet a more inclusive place while boosting your SEO game, one adorable cat at a time!

Happy alt-texting!

Mia Carter, Blog Writer, antiland Team