Text alternatives, often referred to as alt text, are textual descriptions provided for images in email marketing. They serve as a substitute for images, allowing users to understand the content even if the images fail to load or if they are visually impaired and using a screen reader.
Why are Text Alternatives Important?
Text alternatives are crucial for several reasons:
Accessibility: They enable visually impaired users to understand image content through screen readers. Deliverability: Some email clients block images by default. Alt text ensures the message is still conveyed. User Experience: With descriptive alt text, users can grasp the content even if images don't load. SEO: Although minimal, alt text can contribute to search engine optimization by providing context.
How to Write Effective Alt Text?
Writing effective alt text involves:
Be Descriptive: Clearly describe the image content. Keep It Short: Aim for concise descriptions, ideally under 125 characters. Avoid Redundancy: Don't repeat information already present in the surrounding text. Use Keywords Wisely: Include relevant keywords naturally, without keyword stuffing.
Examples of Good and Bad Alt Text
Consider the following examples:
Good Alt Text: "Woman holding a blue umbrella in the rain." This description is clear and concise.