Embedded Files
Overview
Overview
Alternative text (often called alt text) is a brief written description that conveys the purpose or meaning of non‑text content (for example, images, icons, and graphs). It helps students who use assistive technologies, supports low‑bandwidth situations when images don’t load, and improves search and reusability of instructional materials.
Why Alt Text Matters in K–12
Why Alt Text Matters in K–12
Images often carry essential information in lessons, slides, LMS pages, and handouts. When alt text is present, screen readers can announce that information so students who are blind, have low vision, or prefer audio can access the same learning. In schools, writing effective alt text is part of creating accessible, equitable materials for all learners and aligns with federal accessibility obligations (e.g., Section 504/ADA) that districts follow.
Alt Text Decision Tree
Alt Text Decision Tree
Alt Text may not be needed if the image is purely decorative. Review the Alt Text Decision Tree to help you decide.
Quick Principles for Success
Quick Principles for Success
Write for the purpose: Describe what the image contributes in this context (instructional goal, concept, or function), not every visual detail. For example, consider how the alt text for an image of a bird might differ in a science class versus a photography class.
Be concise: Aim for a brief phrase or one sentence for simple images; two to three sentences for complex graphics only when needed.
Mark decorative images: If an image is purely decorative (adds no meaning and isn’t a link), mark it as decorative so screen readers skip it.
Include essential text in images: If key words or labels appear in the image, reflect those in the alt text (or in nearby visible text/captions).
Skip “image of…”: Screen readers already announce that it’s an image. Start with the content that matters.
Adding Alt Text in Common K–12 Tools (Quick Reference)
Adding Alt Text in Common K–12 Tools (Quick Reference)
Google Docs/Slides: Right‑click image → Alt text… → Add title/description. (In Slides, also consider adding a visible caption near the image.)
Google Classroom, Canvas, ParentSquare, etc.): When inserting an image, look for the Alt Text field in the dialog, or edit the image’s properties after insertion.
Google Sites Alt Text
Google Sites Alt Text
Right click on an image in a Google Site, click the 3 vertical dots and select the "Alt Text" menu item.
In the Description box enter text describing the image, or if the image is purely decorative check the "This is a decorative image" box. Click Apply.
ParentSquare Alt Text
ParentSquare Alt Text
Click the image and click the "i" icon
Enter your alt text in the ParentSquare pop-up box. You may optionally click the "Generate AI suggestion" to help you draft the alternate text. Click "Save." If the image is purely decorative, leave the alt text blank and click "Skip for Now."
If you are unsure, see the Alt Text Decision Tree for more detailed guidance.
Extended Description Tips (for Complex Visuals)
Extended Description Tips (for Complex Visuals)
When an image is too complex for short alt text (e.g., dense charts or infographics), keep the alt text concise (the gist) and provide a nearby longer description: a paragraph under the image, a linked “Full data table,” or a “Details” accordion.
Teacher Tip: when adding alt text to tables, graphs, etc. be sure the alt text does not give away an answer on the assessment answer related to the visual.
Complex Visual Example
Complex Visual Example
View the Math Trajectories page in the WMS Program of Studies for an example of a complex graphic explained with detailed text below.
Related Resources for Deeper Learning
Related Resources for Deeper Learning
- Alt Decision Tree — W3C WAI
A clear, stepwise decision tree that helps authors determine whether alt text is needed, and how best to supply it (or alternatives) based on image function and context.
- Images Tutorial — W3C Web Accessibility Initiative (WAI)
This WAI tutorial walks through how to choose and implement appropriate alt text or other alternatives for all kinds of images (informative, decorative, functional, complex, etc.).
- Alt Text: What to Write — Nielsen Norman Group
This article explains how to write effective alt text, including step-by-step strategies and a decision tree, with examples illustrating decorative, functional, and informative images.
This page adapts and builds on content from the Nebraska ESU Coordinating Council's Accessibility in Schools site and related resources, and is shared under a Creative Commons Attribution - ShareAlike (CC BY-SA 4.0) license.
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