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Start with the purpose
An image may show an entrance, explain a gesture or present a result. The same photo needs different descriptions in an announcement and a portfolio. Write the information needed to understand or act first, then details relevant to the subject.
Adapt the description
W3C distinguishes informative, decorative, functional and complex images. For a chart, make values and explanations available as text too. For a poster, put times and location in the post itself, not only in the image’s pixels.
Review without guessing
Do not invent identity, emotion or circumstances from appearance. An automatic description is a draft: check names, numbers and relevant details. Avoid repeating the entire caption when it already gives context; add complementary visual information.
Check each post
Find the description feature in the app’s current help. Otherwise, include a readable description in the text accompanying the image. Each carousel image may convey different information. Review the message without images to find instructions that no longer make sense.
Choose the right check for the situation
These editorial pointers help prepare and review your work. Choose the situation matching your content; check current features and conditions in the cited sources before applying it to a service.
| Situation | Useful action | Mistake to avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Entrance photograph | Describe the door and route needed to arrive; keep the address in the text. | Inferring venue accessibility from the photograph alone. |
| Results chart | Provide the trend, period, units and access to values as text. | Describing only the colours of lines. |
| Tutorial carousel | Name the step and decisive action for each image; check their order. | Copying the same alternative text onto every image. |
| Purely decorative photograph | Check whether removing the image changes meaning. On your site, follow W3C guidance for decorative images. | Adding a long description that interrupts reading without information. |
Hypothetical example: apply the method
An association announces a workshop in a building with two entrances. The description says “Entrance through the blue door on the right of the courtyard.” The title and time remain in the announcement text.
Template to adapt
Copy this outline into your working document. It collects no information on this site; complete it for your situation.
Image purpose: Essential visual information: Text already present: Additional description: Names and numbers checked:
Your pre-use check
0 / 4 checks completed
Frequently asked questions
Should every detail be described?
Select those relevant to the message. A list of colours and objects can obscure the essential information.
Is alternative text enough?
It addresses a specific need. Structure, contrast, captions and comprehension require other checks.
Continue with related content
Sources and scope
Primary references consulted for factual points. Methods and templates are editorial suggestions; service conditions should still be checked in current documentation.