Challenge #6: Alternative Text for Images

Bobby Bailey

Bobby Bailey

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The Challenge

Review the website to ensure all images and icons have descriptive alternative (alt) text.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Access the Website:
    Open your website and navigate to various pages where images and icons are used.
  2. Examine the Images:
    • Use your browser’s inspect element or accessibility tools to view the alt attributes on images and icons.
    • Alternatively, use a screen reader to see how images are announced.
  3. Evaluate Alt Text:
    • Check if the alt text accurately describes the image’s purpose or conveys its meaning.
    • Ensure decorative images have empty alt attributes so they are skipped by assistive technologies.
  4. Test for Functionality:
    • Imagine you are a user who cannot see the images. Consider if the provided alt text would allow you to understand the content and context of each image.
    • Compare similar images across the site to see if the descriptions are consistent and informative.

Reflection Questions:

  • Clarity: Does the alt text clearly communicate the image’s function or content?
  • Contextual Meaning: Would a user who relies on assistive technology understand the role and importance of the image on the page?
  • Consistency: Are the alt texts consistent across the site, especially for images that serve similar functions (e.g., icons, buttons)?
  • Improvement Areas: Are there any images where the alt text is missing, too generic, or does not capture the intended message?

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