Quick Guide: Writing Alt Text – Page 10

Editor’s Tip

Alt text should be provided so a student who cannot see the image can still complete the activity. Be sure to describe parts of the image within the activity that are relevant to its completion clearly without giving away the correct answers. 

If the alt text describes the component of the activity indicated by the correct draggable label, then it provides a clue to the right answer that a student who can see the image would not receive. 

For example, the correct answer for the first drop zone (highest drop zone on the left) is superior. The alt text could give away the right answer if it included the word superior. Depending on the activity, a description of the drop zone’s physical features could also give away the right answer. See “Blank 1” below for appropriate alt text that does not indicate the correct answer.

You can use a screen reader to hear the entire alt text while completing the activity or review a sample below.

Good Examples

Blank 1

• Alt text: An anatomical silhouette of an individual. A blank box above the head indicating the anatomical term for a direction toward the top of the body.
• Answer: Superior

Blank 2:

• Alt text: An anatomical silhouette of an individual. A blank box above the left shoulder indicating the anatomical term for a direction toward the highest point of the arm near the shoulder.
• Answer: Proximal

Poor Examples

Blank 1

• Alt text: The area above the head.

Blank 2:

• Alt text: The shoulder.