Writing Alternative Text for Images

May 5th, 2011

CIO Council

Introduction


Document and web authors seeking to accommodate people who are blind or visually impaired will find a plethora of information about where and when to include alternative text. Problems occur when alternative text is written incorrectly, confuses users, or does not provide proper context. While creating alternative text is not an exact science, this easy-to-use, illustrated, and comprehensive reference guide demonstrates how to write meaningful alternative text and correct common errors.

Applicability and Agency Branding


This guide is freely available to individuals and organizations that want to improve the accessibility of information technology. In addition, the Social Security Administration will assist U.S. Federal agencies who want to brand the document for internal use (agency name, logo, etc.). Send a message to section508@ssa.gov for information on your branding of the Social Security Administration Alternative Text Writing Guide.

Examples

SSA Alternative Text for Images Writing Guide