Alt text, also known as “alternative text” or “alt attributes,” is a written description of an image that is displayed when the image cannot be displayed on a webpage. Alt text is often used for web accessibility purposes, as it allows users who are blind or visually impaired to understand the content of an image through a screen reader.
However, alt text can also be beneficial for search engine optimization (SEO). When you use alt text, you are providing context to search engines about the images on your webpage. This can help search engines understand the content of your page and improve its ranking in search results.
Here are some benefits of using alt text for SEO:
Improved accessibility:
As mentioned, alt text allows users with disabilities to understand the content of an image. This can improve the accessibility of your website and make it more user-friendly.
Better indexing:
Search engines use alt text to understand the content of an image and determine its relevance to a particular search query. By including relevant alt text, you can help search engines index your images and improve the ranking of your webpage.
Increased traffic:
By optimizing your alt text, you can increase the chances that your images will appear in image search results. This can drive more traffic to your website and increase the visibility of your content.
Enhanced user experience:
Alt text can also improve the user experience by providing a brief description of an image for users who may be unable to view it. This can help users better understand the content of your webpage and improve their overall experience on your website.
In conclusion, using alt text for SEO can provide a range of benefits, including improved accessibility, better indexing, increased traffic, and enhanced user experience. By taking the time to carefully choose and optimize your alt text, you can improve the SEO of your website and drive more traffic to your content.
