Q. Accessibility - Add Alternative (alt) Text to Images, Graphs, Diagrams and Charts

Accessibility - Add Alternative (alt) Text to Images, Graphs, Diagrams and Charts

Add Alternative (alt) Text to Images, Graphs, Diagrams and Charts

Tip: Add alt text to images, graphs, diagrams and charts

Why it matters:
Alt text provides a concise, meaningful description of an image so that users with visual impairments can access the same essential information as sighted users. When included, screen readers read the description aloud and can also assist users when images fail to load. Because everything is spoken by the screen reader, alt text should communicate only the information necessary to understand the image’s purpose in the content.

For complex images such as charts or graphs make sure to include axis labels, legends and titles before importing them into Canvas.

Alt text for charts should describe the type of chart and what it demonstrates. Use long descriptions instead of alt text for complex visual content when:

• Complex data is presented (e.g., charts, graphs)
• There are meaningful relationships or multiple elements (e.g., flowcharts, schematics)
• The visual information is essential for understanding the content or completing a task
• The image cannot be fully described with alt text alone

How to do it:
Add alt text in Canvas

Add alt text in Microsoft Word or Excel

Add alt text to a shape, picture, charts, SmartArt graphic, or other object

Add alt text in Microsoft PowerPoint

Alignment:
Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG)  1.1.1