Optimize Image ALT Texts

Images make your website visually appealing, but they can also be powerful tools for SEO if optimized correctly. One of the simplest yet most effective ways to improve your image SEO is through ALT texts. In this guide, we’ll explain what ALT texts are, why they matter, and how to create them properly for better rankings and accessibility.

What is an ALT Text?

An ALT text (alternative text) is an HTML attribute added to image tags to describe what an image shows. It helps both search engines and users understand the content of an image.

Example:

<img src=”sunset-beach.jpg” alt=”Sunset over a calm beach with golden skies and waves”>

In this example, the ALT text clearly describes the image, giving context for both visitors and search engines.

Why ALT Texts Are Important

1. Improve Web Accessibility

ALT texts make your website more accessible for visually impaired users. Screen readers read these descriptions aloud, helping users understand what’s on your page.

2. Display Information When Images Fail to Load

If an image cannot be displayed due to technical issues, the ALT text will appear in its place, giving users an idea of what the image is supposed to convey.

3. Enhance Image SEO

Search engines cannot “see” images like humans do. ALT texts help search bots understand the content of your images, allowing them to appear in image search results and increasing traffic potential.

How to Write Effective ALT Texts

Keep It Short and Precise

Aim for around 125 characters. Long or overly detailed descriptions do not improve SEO.

Describe the Image Clearly

Include enough detail so that someone who cannot see the image can understand it. Focus on the most important aspects of the image without adding unnecessary words.

Include Keywords Naturally

You can use target keywords if relevant, but avoid stuffing them into ALT texts. Google values natural descriptions that improve user experience.

Avoid Common Mistakes

• Do not use phrases like “image of” or “picture of” it’s already assumed.
• Avoid keyword stuffing; overloading your ALT text with keywords can hurt SEO.
• Do not use images as text; search engines cannot read text within images.
• Include ALT texts for functional images like buttons or icons (e.g., “Sign Up,” “Apply Now”).

Optimal ALT Text Examples

Good ALT Texts:

• <img src=”sunset-beach.jpg” alt=”Sunset over a calm beach with golden skies and waves”>
• <img src=”signup-form.jpg” alt=”Button to submit registration form for newsletter”>
• <img src=”chocolate-cake.jpg” alt=”Chocolate cake topped with strawberries and chocolate drizzle”>
• <img src=”office-desk.jpg” alt=”Modern office desk with laptop, notebook, and coffee mug”>

Not Recommended:

• <img src=”sunset-beach.jpg” alt=”beach sunset waves sky sand water sunset beach water golden sand”>  <!– keyword stuffing –>
• <img src=”chocolate-cake.jpg” alt=””>  <!– missing ALT text –>
• <img src=”office-desk.jpg” alt=”picture of desk computer office workspace”>  <!– generic and redundant –>

How to Check ALT Texts on Your Website

Checking every image manually can be time-consuming. Tools like ClickRank can help you perform a full audit of your website and generate alt text with the help of an alt text generator tool, identifying images without ALT texts and offering suggestions for optimization. This ensures that all your images contribute to SEO and accessibility.

Steps to check ALT texts:

1. Run a site audit using ClickRank.
2. Navigate to the Image Report under Content.
3. Review which images are missing ALT texts.
4. Add descriptive and keyword-appropriate ALT texts as needed.

Key Takeaways

• ALT texts are essential for accessibility, image SEO, and user experience.
• Keep descriptions concise, descriptive, and aligned with the content of your page.
• Include keywords naturally but avoid overstuffing.
• Regularly audit your images using tools like ClickRank to ensure all images are optimized.
  

By following these guidelines, you can make your website more user-friendly, boost your image SEO, and potentially increase organic traffic from Google Images and search results.