Image use and visual content 6m714b
Visual content includes pictures, SmartArt graphics, shapes, groups, charts, embedded objects, ink, and videos. gk6w
There are four very simple things to consider when adding images to a web page or document.
- use images that the text
- never use an image instead of text
- use correct image sizes (on the web it is best to have images around 150kb)
- use alt text on images
The Microsoft Office Accessibility Checker (opens in a new window) will list any accessibility issues in your document, including lack of alt text on images.
Why add alt text? 1m6r3s
Alt text is used to provide an alternative description of the image for those people who are unable to view it. This may include people with visual impairments who use screen readers as well as people using text only browsers.
Alt text is also useful if the image fails to load properly.
Avoid using text in images as the sole method of conveying important information. If you must use an image with text in it, repeat that text in the document.
How to do it 4w643
Include alternative text (alt text) with all visuals.
- How to add alt text to visuals in Office 365 (opens in a new window)
- How to add alt text to visuals in Office 2019 (opens in a new window)
- How to add alt text to visuals in Office 2016 (opens in a new window)
Further information ing meaningful alt text with images can be found at WebAIM alternative text (opens in a new window)
SCULPT by Helen Wilson is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License. Based on work at Worcestershire County Council.