How to Write Alt Text for Images on Your Wix Website: SEO Tutorial

Hey there, fellow web enthusiast! Welcome to another exciting blog post from NewForm, where we're passionate about helping you enhance your web design skills, find golden opportunities, and connect with industry experts. Today, we're diving into the world of Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and accessibility—specifically, how to effectively use alt text for images in Wix. Whether you're a seasoned designer or just starting, this topic is crucial for improving your website's visibility and user experience.

What is Alt Text and Why is it Important?

So, let's start with the basics. Alt text, or alternative text, is a short text-based description of an image used to improve accessibility for people who use screen readers, such as those with visual impairments. But wait, there's more! Alt text also plays a significant role in SEO, helping search engines understand the content of your images, which can ultimately enhance your site's ranking in search results. Think of alt text as your image's way to communicate when it can't show up, like when a page is slow to load or for someone with a screen reader trying to understand your content.

The Dual Purpose of Alt Text

1. Accessibility: For our friends who are site impaired or have other disabilities, alt text is a lifeline. Screen readers use alt text to read out loud what's in your images so that everyone can enjoy and understand your site's content. It's all about creating an inclusive and enjoyable user experience for all visitors.

2. SEO Optimization: Google's bots can't "see" images, but they can read alt text. By filling in this tiny text field, you're giving them the extra context needed to index your images correctly. Plus, well-written alt text can enhance your site's ranking, making you a little bit more visible in the vast ocean of the internet.

How to Write Effective Alt Text

Here's a pro tip from NewForm: when writing alt text, think about people first, search engines second. Avoid keyword stuffing—those days are long gone. Instead, be descriptive and precise. Let’s walk through how to add alt text to images using Wix.

Step-by-Step Guide to Adding Alt Text in Wix:

1. Navigate to the Wix Editor: Start by opening the Wix Editor for your site.

2. Select the Image: Click on the image you wish to add alt text to. You'll notice a toolbar pops up—what a friendly little thing!

3. Access Image Settings: Click the gear settings icon. This action will open the image settings tab. Wix makes it super intuitive!

4. Write Your Alt Text: In the field labeled "What's in the image," type a clear and descriptive alt text. For example, if you have an image of a personal trainer named Leslie Adams smiling with a jump rope, you might write, "Leslie Adams personal trainer smiling with a jump rope." Remember, you're painting a word picture.

5. Avoid Keyword Stuffing: Descriptive does not mean cramming every keyword imaginable. It might be tempting to throw in "Personal Trainer California Fitness Gym Workout," but resist! Google has become too smart for that and prioritizes user experience over keyword density.

6. Repeat for All Images: Go through your site and add alt text to every image. Don’t forget background images or decorative images that might benefit from a little extra description.

7. Background Images, Too: If an image has been set as the background of a column or section, you'll need to click "Change Column Background," click "Settings," and then write the alt text there. Maybe it's a picture of exercise on a sunny beach, so your alt text might be "woman doing exercises on the beach."

Best Practices for Writing Alt Text

Clarity is Key:

- Focus on the essential details of an image; what's the most crucial aspect you want to convey?

Be Concise:

- Aim for alt text that is clear yet concise—enough to describe the image without unnecessary fluff.

Consider Context:

- Reflect on the image's purpose within the page. Does it contribute to the article's topic, support a particular point, or offer additional insight?

Use Plain Language:

- Utilize simple and understandable language. This isn't the place for jargon or complex terms.

Include Relevant Information:

- If a product, person, location, or activity is depicted in the image, include that detail in your description.

Wrapping It Up

Alt text might seem like a small detail, but don't underestimate its power to elevate your website's accessibility and search engine rankings. It's about making sure everyone, regardless of their abilities or the technology they use, can access the valuable content you're creating. At NewForm, we're all about honing your design skills and helping you find your place in the world of web design.

Remember, creating a great user experience is the heart of web design, and thoughtful alt text is a significant step towards achieving that goal. Go ahead, give your images a voice with well-crafted alt text—your users (and search engines) will thank you!

If you're ready to soar to new design heights and want to be part of a vibrant community of like-minded creatives, now is the perfect time! At NewForm, we offer a treasure trove of resources, monthly challenges with cash prizes, and guidance from industry leaders through exclusive guest sessions. So, what are you waiting for? Join NewForm today and unlock a world of opportunities!

Happy designing, and see you in the next post!