Accessibility standards and generative AI tools shape best practices for alternate text on images.
Alt text provides a concise description of the image. Screen readers, which visually impaired readers rely on, speak the text. Generative AI tools also use alt text to interpret the image.
Example: “Network diagram showing three tier architecture with web, application, and database layers.”
Guidelines:
- Screenshots in procedural steps:
Provide descriptive alt text only. Human readers and AI agents use context and position to interpret the screenshot. Do not include visible descriptions above screenshots. This impedes readability and interrupts procedural flow. - Complex diagrams:
Include a brief description above the diagram to orient all users before they interpret the visual. Also provide alt text.
How do you use alt text in a document?