How to Write Alt Text That Makes Your Posts Accessible

What alt text is for

It describes what is in the image so people who cannot see it still get the message. It also gives search engines context.

How to write it well

• Describe what matters, not every detail.
• Lead with the main subject.
• Skip "image of," the reader already knows.

Mind the length

Alt text has practical limits. Keep it clear and within them, so the whole description is read and nothing gets cut.

Describe, do not caption

Alt text is not a second caption or a place for hashtags. It is a plain description of what is in the image for someone who cannot see it. Say what matters, lead with the main subject, and keep it factual. The caption sells; the alt text describes.

What alt text is for

Alt text is the description a screen reader reads aloud in place of your image. Skipping it shuts out part of your audience entirely, and it also gives search engines useful context about what your image shows. It is a small habit with real reach.

How to write it well

• Describe what matters in the image, not every last detail.
• Lead with the main subject so the point comes first.
• Skip phrases like "image of," the screen reader already announces it is an image.

Describe, do not caption

Alt text is not a second caption or a place for hashtags. It is a plain, factual description for someone who cannot see the picture. The caption sells and adds personality; the alt text simply says what is there. Keeping it clear and within the platform limit means the whole description gets read and nothing is cut off.

A simple formula

When you are stuck, use this shape: subject, action, context. "A barista pours milk into a latte at a wooden counter" covers who or what, what is happening, and where, in one clear line. It gives a screen reader user the real picture without padding. Skip mood words and marketing language; save those for the caption, where they belong.