A filename and alternative text do different jobs
A filename identifies the uploaded file, such as beginner-pottery-tools.jpg. Alternative text, often called alt text, is attached to an image in the page and helps people using screen readers understand its purpose. Neither is a place for a list of keywords.
Describe what matters in this context
For an informative image, explain the relevant detail briefly. If an image is a button or link, describe its action. A purely decorative image normally needs empty alternative text so assistive technology can skip it. Ask your website person how your editor handles decorative images.
Do not break existing images for a small tidy-up
Use helpful names before new uploads. Renaming a file on your computer does not rename an image already online. Replacing it may change its address and break references. Improve missing alternative text first, then handle replacements carefully. Keep hours, prices and course requirements as text outside images.
Made-up example / Pottery teacher
Describe the lesson image
For a photo showing the tools required, “Sponge, wooden modelling tool and wire cutter for the beginner lesson” is useful. “Best pottery course cheap pottery online” is not. Put the full equipment list in page text as well.
One thing to try
Try it on one public page
- Choose one image that helps a visitor make a decision.
- Write alternative text for its role on the page, or mark it decorative if it adds no information.
- Check that important facts inside the image also appear as text.
- Give the next new image a descriptive filename before uploading.
How to check the result
- Check the saved image settings and published page. Confirm the image still loads.
- Ask a screen-reader user or use a screen reader to check its announced alternative text if available. A code check for an alt attribute alone cannot judge whether the wording is useful.
Keep the page address, date and evidence. A page improvement is not a promise of rankings or AI citations.
Words in this guide
Only if you want to look them up.
Sources and further reading
Official documentation for the general guidance. These sources are not inspection findings about your page.
Published Studio article, for further reading: Your Website Has Three Viewers Now. You Do Not Build Three Websites.
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