Content publishing
Choose an Image Alternative by Purpose
Published by whatisADA / Grow Wild Agency · Updated
Purpose and preparation
Decide what an image contributes in its specific context before writing alt text. Distinguish informative images, functional images, text images, complex graphics and decoration. Record the reason for the decision so future editors can maintain it.
A practical example
The same arrow graphic is decorative beside a text link in one place and the only content of a Next button in another.
How to check it
- Read the surrounding content and identify information or function that would be lost without the image. Check whether nearby text already supplies it.
- Choose an alternative that preserves that purpose. Use a concise functional name for an image-only control and an empty alternative for genuine decoration.
- Review the page with images unavailable and with a screen reader. Check for missing meaning, duplicated phrases and unnecessary descriptions of decoration.
What can be missed
A description of appearance is not always the right alternative. The arrow button needs its action named, not a detailed account of the arrow's shape.
Record your test
Use this worksheet to record what you actually checked. Notes stay on this device when you choose Save; they are not sent to us. Avoid personal or confidential information on shared devices.
These are your observations, not automated results or a conformance certificate. A complete evaluation needs appropriate scope, supported technologies, all applicable criteria and relevant page states.
Primary sources and scope
This is independent implementation guidance with original examples. The linked standard contains the full definitions, exceptions and conformance requirements. A criterion or checklist alone does not establish legal applicability or whole-site conformance.