What is the purpose of alternative text (alt text) in images?

Alternative text, commonly referred to as alt text, serves a crucial function in web accessibility by providing a textual description of images specifically for screen reader users. Screen readers are assistive technologies that convert text into speech, allowing individuals with visual impairments to understand the content of a webpage. By including descriptive alt text for images, content creators ensure that users who cannot see the images can still grasp their meaning and context, thereby promoting inclusivity.

For example, if an image shows a group of people at a conference, an appropriate alt text might read “Five people sitting around a table at a technology conference, discussing ideas.” This description not only conveys the visual essence of the image but also provides important context that enhances the user's understanding of the content on the page.

While there are other considerations regarding images, such as search engine optimization or improving quality, these do not pertain directly to the primary purpose of alt text. The focus is firmly on enhancing accessibility for users utilizing screen readers, which underscores the importance of including meaningful alt descriptions in digital content.