---
title: "Image Alt Text: A Practical Guide for Developers"
description: Master the art of writing meaningful alt text and know when to leave it empty for decorative images.
image: https://thedeveloper.javierfuentes.cl/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/photo-1526374965328-7f61d4dc18c5-1.jpg
---

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# Image Alt Text: A Practical Guide for Developers

[Rachel Green](https://thedeveloper.javierfuentes.cl/blog/author/rachel-green)  Nov 10, 2023, 12:00:00 AM

Alt text is often misunderstood. It is not just a description of what is in the image — it is a functional replacement that conveys the purpose of the image in context. This guide covers decorative vs informative images, complex images like charts, and common alt text mistakes.

[Accessibility](https://thedeveloper.javierfuentes.cl/blog/tag/accessibility), [HTML](https://thedeveloper.javierfuentes.cl/blog/tag/html)

## Read On

### [Accessible Navigation Patterns for Complex Websites](https://thedeveloper.javierfuentes.cl/blog/accessible-navigation-patterns-for-complex-websites)

 Navigation is the backbone of any website, and inaccessible navigation can lock users out entirely....

### [Understanding the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.2](https://thedeveloper.javierfuentes.cl/blog/understanding-the-web-content-accessibility-guidelines-22)

 WCAG 2.2 introduced new success criteria focused on cognitive accessibility, mobile usability, and...

[![](https://thedeveloper.javierfuentes.cl/hs-fs/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/photo-1542831371-29b0f74f9713-2.jpg?width=352&name=photo-1542831371-29b0f74f9713-2.jpg)](https://thedeveloper.javierfuentes.cl/blog/semantic-html-the-foundation-of-accessible-development)

### [Semantic HTML: The Foundation of Accessible Development](https://thedeveloper.javierfuentes.cl/blog/semantic-html-the-foundation-of-accessible-development)

 Before reaching for ARIA, lean on semantic HTML. Elements like nav, main, article, section, and...

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