Give images the right text alternative

A meaningful image needs a useful alternative. A purely decorative image usually needs an empty alt attribute so assistive technology can skip it.

1. Decide the image’s purpose

Ask what information would be lost if the image disappeared. A service illustration, chart and decorative flourish need different treatment.

2. Describe the useful information

Write concise text in the context of the surrounding page. Do not repeat a nearby caption unnecessarily or fill the field with keywords.

3. Handle linked images carefully

If an image is the only content of a link, its alternative needs to explain the link’s destination or purpose.

4. Check the final output

An image field in the editor is not proof that the template outputs it correctly. Inspect the rendered page and test the relevant component.

When to ask for help

Stop if the change affects a critical workflow, requires access you do not have or produces a result you cannot explain. Keep the original evidence and a restorable backup. A short, well-defined repair request is easier to review than a series of speculative changes.

Related repair: request a scope review. Choose your platform on the request form; availability and price are confirmed before payment.