Alt Tags - What Are They and Why Do They Matter?

Alt tags, or alternative text descriptions, play a crucial role in search engine optimisation (SEO) and website accessibility. While they might seem like a minor detail, they significantly impact how search engines and users interact with your website. Businesses that fail to implement proper alt tags risk missing out on valuable traffic and potential customers. At CCM, we can review your website and ensure images are alt tagged, alongside full comprehensive SEO services.

Understanding Alt Tags and Their Function

Alt tags are text descriptions assigned to images on a website. Their primary function is to provide context when an image fails to load or when a visually impaired user relies on screen-reading software. By offering a concise yet informative description, alt tags improve the overall user experience and make content more inclusive.

From an SEO perspective, alt tags help search engines understand the content of an image. Since search engines cannot 'see' images in the way humans do, they rely on alt text to determine relevance. Well-optimised alt tags help improve a website’s chances of appearing in image search results, driving additional organic traffic.

The SEO Benefits of Effective Alt Tags

Search engine optimisation depends on multiple factors, and alt tags are a valuable component of a well-structured strategy. When search engines crawl a website, they consider alt text to evaluate relevance and keyword placement. Including strategic keywords within alt tags, without overstuffing, can improve a page’s ranking. Websites with properly optimised alt tags contribute to a better overall SEO score. They improve page usability, decrease bounce rates, and increase engagement, all of which signal to search engines that a website offers valuable content. In contrast, missing or poorly written alt tags can negatively impact search engine rankings.

Best Practices for Writing Alt Tags

Creating effective alt text requires a balance between clarity and keyword integration. A strong alt tag should accurately describe the image without unnecessary wording. It should also incorporate relevant SEO terms naturally, ensuring readability for both search engines and users.

At Cobalt Cat Media, we specialise in optimising websites for better visibility, engagement, and conversions. Whether you need guidance on alt tags, SEO strategy, or broader digital marketing services, our team is here to help. Get in touch today to ensure your website is fully optimised for search engines and user experience alike. Call 01625 453 050 or email info@cobaltcatmedia.com to speak to a member of our team.