Basic Principles of Writing Alt Text
- Be concise but descriptive: The alt text should be brief, typically under 125 characters, but still convey the key information or purpose of the image.
- Focus on the function: Describe the content or purpose of the image. If the image serves a decorative purpose (like a background or icon), it can be marked as null (empty) alt text (alt="").
- Use plain language: Avoid jargon and complex language. Use simple, clear words that most people can understand.
- Don't repeat information already in the text: If the image's content is described in the text nearby, don’t duplicate that information in the alt text.
Alt Text for Graphs and Charts
Key Points:
- Focus on the data and trends, not the visual aspects (e.g., colors or design).
- Include the axis labels and what they represent.
- Describe the key trends or patterns shown in the graph/chart.
- If possible, include the units of measurement and legend/key if it’s a complex chart.
Example for a Bar Graph:

Alt Text: "Bar graph showing an increase in student enrollment from 3,000 in 2020 to 5,200 in 2024."
Example for a Line Chart:

Alt Text: "Line chart showing revenue fluctuations for Q1 2024, starting at $50K in January, peaking at $70K in February, and ending at $55K in March."
Alt Text for Medical Images
Key Points:
- Describe the relevant features of the image, including anatomy, medical conditions, or procedures depicted.
- Use appropriate medical terminology where necessary but ensure the text is still understandable.
- Focus on specifics: Identify organs, areas of concern (e.g., injury, infection), and other relevant details.
Example for an X-ray Image:

Alt Text: "X-ray showing a displaced fracture of the left femur just above the knee joint."
Example for a Medical Diagram of the Heart:

Alt Text: "Medical diagram of the human heart showing the four chambers and blood flow. Oxygenated blood enters the left atrium from the lungs."
Alt Text for Infographics
Key Points:
- Describe the overall topic and what it’s meant to convey.
- Identify and summarize key points or sections in the infographic.
Example for an Infographic:

Alt Text: "Infographic on reducing energy consumption at home. Steps include switching to LED bulbs, using smart thermostats, and sealing windows, with a bar chart showing energy savings."
Alt Text for Complex Diagrams or Flowcharts
Key Points:
- Describe the structure: Outline the flow or relationship between different components or steps.
- Summarize important connections or outcomes.
Example for a Flowchart:

Alt Text: "Flowchart outlining the process to resolve customer complaints, from receiving the complaint to resolving it and sending a satisfaction survey."
Alt Text for Tables
Key Points:
- Summarize the key data presented in the table.
- Provide context for what the data shows (e.g., trends, comparisons).
Example for a Table:

Alt Text: "Table comparing the sales of Products A, B, and C across four quarters in 2024. Product A had the highest sales in Q1 and Q2, while Product B performed better in Q3 and Q4."