• majorAlexa

        See all notifications

        Skip to content
        Moz logo Menu open Menu close
        • Products
          • Moz Pro
          • Moz Pro Home
          • Moz Local
          • Moz Local Home
          • STAT
          • Moz API
          • Moz API Home
          • Compare SEO Products
          • Moz Data
        • Free SEO Tools
          • Domain Analysis
          • Keyword Explorer
          • Link Explorer
          • Competitive Research
          • MozBar
          • More Free SEO Tools
        • Learn SEO
          • Beginner's Guide to SEO
          • SEO Learning Center
          • Moz Academy
          • MozCon
          • Webinars, Whitepapers, & Guides
        • Blog
        • Why Moz
          • Digital Marketers
          • Agency Solutions
          • Enterprise Solutions
          • Small Business Solutions
          • The Moz Story
          • New Releases
        • Log in
        • Log out
        • Products
          • Moz Pro

            Your all-in-one suite of SEO essentials.

          • Moz Local

            Raise your local SEO visibility with complete local SEO management.

          • STAT

            SERP tracking and analytics for enterprise SEO experts.

          • Moz API

            Power your SEO with our index of over 44 trillion links.

          • Compare SEO Products

            See which Moz SEO solution best meets your business needs.

          • Moz Data

            Power your SEO strategy & AI models with custom data solutions.

          Let your business shine with Listings AI
          Moz Local

          Let your business shine with Listings AI

          Learn more
        • Free SEO Tools
          • Domain Analysis

            Get top competitive SEO metrics like DA, top pages and more.

          • Keyword Explorer

            Find traffic-driving keywords with our 1.25 billion+ keyword index.

          • Link Explorer

            Explore over 40 trillion links for powerful backlink data.

          • Competitive Research

            Uncover valuable insights on your organic search competitors.

          • MozBar

            See top SEO metrics for free as you browse the web.

          • More Free SEO Tools

            Explore all the free SEO tools Moz has to offer.

          NEW Keyword Suggestions by Topic
          Moz Pro

          NEW Keyword Suggestions by Topic

          Learn more
        • Learn SEO
          • Beginner's Guide to SEO

            The #1 most popular introduction to SEO, trusted by millions.

          • SEO Learning Center

            Broaden your knowledge with SEO resources for all skill levels.

          • On-Demand Webinars

            Learn modern SEO best practices from industry experts.

          • How-To Guides

            Step-by-step guides to search success from the authority on SEO.

          • Moz Academy

            Upskill and get certified with on-demand courses & certifications.

          • MozCon

            Save on Early Bird tickets and join us in London or New York City

          Unlock flexible pricing & new endpoints
          Moz API

          Unlock flexible pricing & new endpoints

          Find your plan
        • Blog
        • Why Moz
          • Digital Marketers

            Simplify SEO tasks to save time and grow your traffic.

          • Small Business Solutions

            Uncover insights to make smarter marketing decisions in less time.

          • Agency Solutions

            Earn & keep valuable clients with unparalleled data & insights.

          • Enterprise Solutions

            Gain a competitive edge in the ever-changing world of search.

          • The Moz Story

            Moz was the first & remains the most trusted SEO company.

          • New Releases

            Get the scoop on the latest and greatest from Moz.

          Surface actionable competitive intel
          New Feature

          Surface actionable competitive intel

          Learn More
        • Log in
          • Moz Pro
          • Moz Local
          • Moz Local Dashboard
          • Moz API
          • Moz API Dashboard
          • Moz Academy
        • Avatar
          • Moz Home
          • Notifications
          • Account & Billing
          • Manage Users
          • Community Profile
          • My Q&A
          • My Videos
          • Log Out

        The Moz Q&A Forum

        • Forum
        • Questions
        • My Q&A
        • Users
        • Ask the Community

        Welcome to the Q&A Forum

        Browse the forum for helpful insights and fresh discussions about all things SEO.

        1. Home
        2. SEO Tactics
        3. On-Page Optimization
        4. Icon Alt description

        Moz Q&A is closed.

        After more than 13 years, and tens of thousands of questions, Moz Q&A closed on 12th December 2024. Whilst we’re not completely removing the content - many posts will still be possible to view - we have locked both new posts and new replies. More details here.

        Icon Alt description

        On-Page Optimization
        icons alt images alt attributes
        10
        10
        2124
        Loading More Posts
        • Watching

          Notify me of new replies.
          Show question in unread.

        • Not Watching

          Do not notify me of new replies.
          Show question in unread if category is not ignored.

        • Ignoring

          Do not notify me of new replies.
          Do not show question in unread.

        • Oldest to Newest
        • Newest to Oldest
        • Most Votes
        Reply
        • Reply as question
        Locked
        This topic has been deleted. Only users with question management privileges can see it.
        • Asmi-Ta
          Asmi-Ta Subscriber last edited by

          How effective is to add alt tags to icons?

          zooapk Zehlm 2 Replies Last reply Reply Quote 0
          • lucifger
            lucifger last edited by

            Adding alt tags to icons is highly effective for several reasons, making it a worthwhile practice for any website or application developer. Here's why:

            Accessibility: Screen readers need them, users love them.
            SEO: Search engines can see them, rankings go up.
            User Experience: Clarity & context lead to happier users.

            But remember: Keep it concise, describe function, avoid generic terms

            1 Reply Last reply Reply Quote 0
            • kumar5
              kumar5 @Suvidit-Academy last edited by

              @Suvidit-Academy said in Icon Alt description:

              Adding alt tags to icons is very effective for improving accessibility and SEO.

              • Accessibility: Alt tags provide a textual description of an image for people who are unable to see it, such as users with visual impairments or those who are using a screen reader. By adding alt tags to icons, you can ensure that these users can still understand the purpose of the icon and interact with your website or app.

              • SEO: Alt tags can also help improve your website's SEO. When Google and other search engines crawl your website, they look at the alt text of your images to help understand the content of your pages. By using relevant and descriptive alt text, you can help Google better understand your pages and rank them higher in search results.

              Here are a few tips for writing effective alt tags for icons:

              • Be descriptive: The alt text should accurately describe the icon and its purpose. Avoid using vague or generic terms like "image" or "graphic."
              • Be specific: The alt text should be as specific as possible. For example, instead of saying "heart icon," you could say "red heart icon with a white outline."
              • Add context: The alt text should provide context about the icon's surrounding content. For example, if the icon is next to a text link that says "Sign up," the alt text could say "Sign up icon."
              • Keep it short: The alt text should be no more than 125 characters long.

              Warm Regards
              Rahul Gupta
              Suvidit Academy
              Very good, these are the SEO experiences that I lack.

              1 Reply Last reply Reply Quote 0
              • Zehlm
                Zehlm @Asmi-Ta last edited by

                @Asmi-Ta
                alt tags - Should be utilized on any given opportunity to take advantage of keyphrase integration which will enhance local SEO and contribute to a wider scale of search results.

                images - are the primary targets of alt tags; However, any image file that can display an alt tag should be enhanced by a description from that tag incase a viewers browser doesn't display the image.

                title tag - An elaborated tactic is that a title tag can also be integrated with an image alt tag to further create information and boost SEO scores.

                Any image files such as: .jpg, .png, .webp, .tiff, .gif, .ico, etc. these rules for alt and title tags would apply.

                SEO - most apps and programs used to give search engine optimization administration will penalize you if you don't use an alt tag on an image. Use every opportunity you can to integrate descriptive text that can be manipulated for key word or keyphrase contribution and enhancement.

                1 Reply Last reply Reply Quote 0
                • Optimistic1542
                  Optimistic1542 last edited by

                  @Asmi-Ta said in Icon Alt description:

                  How effective is to add alt tags to icons?

                  Here are a few considerations for adding alt tags to icons:

                  • Decorative Icons: If an icon is purely decorative and does not convey essential information, it's best to omit the alt tag or use an empty alt attribute (alt=""). This informs screen readers that the icon is not meaningful content.

                  • Functional Icons: Icons that serve as interactive elements (e.g., buttons or links) should have appropriate text labels or be part of a larger interface with clear text instructions. In such cases, the text label or surrounding content should convey the icon's purpose.

                  • Screen Reader Compatibility: Some screen readers may interpret alt text on icons, which can be confusing to users if the alt text does not provide meaningful information. Therefore, it's crucial to use alt text judiciously for icons and ensure that it enhances, rather than hinders, the user experience.

                  • SEO: Alt tags are more relevant for images when it comes to SEO, as they help search engines understand the content of images and improve the discoverability of web pages in image search results. Icons, being small and often part of larger designs, do not typically have the same impact on SEO.

                  1 Reply Last reply Reply Quote 0
                  • zooapk
                    zooapk @Asmi-Ta last edited by

                    @Asmi-Ta
                    adding alt tags to icons is an effective practice for enhancing accessibility, improving SEO, and providing a better user experience. It's an essential step in making your digital content more inclusive and compliant with accessibility standards.

                    1 Reply Last reply Reply Quote 0
                    • talentwide
                      talentwide last edited by

                      The "Icon Alt description" refers to a text description that is associated with an icon on a website or application. This description is intended to provide a textual representation of the icon's content or functionality for individuals who may be using screen readers or other assistive technologies. It helps visually impaired users understand the purpose or meaning of the icon when they can't see it visually. Providing meaningful and accurate icon alt descriptions contributes to a more inclusive and accessible user experience on digital platforms. . Atlantic immigration pilot program application form

                      1 Reply Last reply Reply Quote 0
                      • msalmanz7
                        msalmanz7 @Suvidit-Academy last edited by

                        Adding alt tags to icons can be highly effective for improving the accessibility and usability of a website or application. Alt tags, short for "alternative text," serve as descriptive labels for images, including icons. Here are some key reasons why adding alt tags to icons is effective:

                        Accessibility: Alt tags are essential for individuals with visual impairments who rely on screen readers to navigate websites and apps. When icons have descriptive alt text, screen readers can convey the meaning and function of the icons, making the content more accessible to everyone.

                        SEO (Search Engine Optimization): Search engines use alt tags to understand the content of images, including icons. Properly optimized alt tags can improve your website's SEO by providing search engines with relevant information about the images, potentially boosting your site's visibility in search results.

                        Clarity and Understanding: Icons are often used to represent actions or features, and their meaning may not always be immediately obvious. Alt tags provide additional context, making it easier for all users, including those with cognitive disabilities, to understand the purpose of the icons.

                        Error Handling: In cases where an icon fails to load or is broken, the alt text can serve as a fallback, informing users about the missing element and what it represents. This prevents confusion and helps users navigate the content effectively.

                        Compliance with Web Standards: Many web accessibility guidelines and standards, such as the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), require the use of alt text for non-text content like icons. Compliance with these standards is essential for ensuring equal access to digital content.

                        Adding alt tags to icons is a best practice for web and app development. It enhances accessibility, aids in SEO, improves user comprehension, handles errors gracefully, and helps meet compliance requirements. It's a relatively simple yet effective way to make digital content more inclusive and user-friendly.
                        Warm Regards,
                        Salman

                        1 Reply Last reply Reply Quote 0
                        • skchad13j
                          skchad13j last edited by

                          The "Icon Alt description" refers to a text description that is associated with an icon on a website or application. This description is intended to provide a textual representation of the icon's content or functionality for individuals who may be using screen readers or other assistive technologies. It helps visually impaired users understand the purpose or meaning of the icon when they can't see it visually. Providing meaningful and accurate icon alt descriptions contributes to a more inclusive and accessible user experience on digital platforms.

                          1 Reply Last reply Reply Quote 0
                          • Suvidit-Academy
                            Suvidit-Academy last edited by

                            Adding alt tags to icons is very effective for improving accessibility and SEO.

                            • Accessibility: Alt tags provide a textual description of an image for people who are unable to see it, such as users with visual impairments or those who are using a screen reader. By adding alt tags to icons, you can ensure that these users can still understand the purpose of the icon and interact with your website or app.

                            • SEO: Alt tags can also help improve your website's SEO. When Google and other search engines crawl your website, they look at the alt text of your images to help understand the content of your pages. By using relevant and descriptive alt text, you can help Google better understand your pages and rank them higher in search results.

                            Here are a few tips for writing effective alt tags for icons:

                            • Be descriptive: The alt text should accurately describe the icon and its purpose. Avoid using vague or generic terms like "image" or "graphic."
                            • Be specific: The alt text should be as specific as possible. For example, instead of saying "heart icon," you could say "red heart icon with a white outline."
                            • Add context: The alt text should provide context about the icon's surrounding content. For example, if the icon is next to a text link that says "Sign up," the alt text could say "Sign up icon."
                            • Keep it short: The alt text should be no more than 125 characters long.

                            Warm Regards
                            Rahul Gupta
                            Suvidit Academy

                            msalmanz7 kumar5 2 Replies Last reply Reply Quote 0
                            • 1 / 1
                            • First post
                              Last post

                            Browse Questions

                            Explore more categories

                            • Moz Tools

                              Chat with the community about the Moz tools.

                            • SEO Tactics

                              Discuss the SEO process with fellow marketers

                            • Community

                              Discuss industry events, jobs, and news!

                            • Digital Marketing

                              Chat about tactics outside of SEO

                            • Research & Trends

                              Dive into research and trends in the search industry.

                            • Support

                              Connect on product support and feature requests.

                            • See all categories

                            Related Questions

                            • RichardNM

                              Unsolved image alt attribute question

                              alt attributes alt images

                              Hi MOZ peeps, Just wondering where I can find the list of alt attributes missing from my website? I'm sure its right in front of my face but I cant' find it. Thanks
                              Richard

                              Moz Tools | | RichardNM
                              0
                            • WeAreDigital_BE

                              Different meta-description per country?

                              I have this .com domain which is the corporate website. Next to this domain, we also have local domains. We would like to test with a different meta-description per country on this one corporate .com domain. Does anyone knows if this is possible and how we could integrate this?

                              On-Page Optimization | | WeAreDigital_BE
                              0
                            • SarahCollins

                              SEO Location Pages - ALT Image Tag Question

                              Hello Guru's, I have a Hire Website whereby you can rent products online. I have created different Location pages for these which are in essence the same pages  page but with different location specific urls, title tags  , on page content etc etc. This helps me to rank for local search. These location pages also display 20 products per page. My question is  Should I make the ALT IMAGE TEXT location specific for each of the 20 products  . Example -  Steam Cleaner Rental in "location" or should I only amend a few of the Atl Image Texts to be location specific. I don't want to come accross as spammy in google eyes but I also don't want to be seen as having duplicate content , images etc etc What do you think ? thanks Sarah.

                              On-Page Optimization | | SarahCollins
                              0
                            • 678648631264

                              What should I put in the image ALT and title text for blogger?

                              Hello, I wanted to know what should I put in the image ALT and title text for blogger. I've read so many damn articles about ALT text and Title text for blogger; nothing explained what I put in it though. What am I supposed to put in it that will help me with my on page optimization? (Stuff like do I use spaces or dashes, do I put my keyword in there, how many characters should I not exceed, do I put one word or two words?) If I have a picture of a backpack, what should the alt text be? What if I have 10 different pictures of backpacks on 1 page? How about if I had a backpack next to a tv in an image? A specific answer or a detailed one is nice!

                              On-Page Optimization | | 678648631264
                              0
                            • elaineryan

                              Duplicate meta descriptions

                              Hi all, I'm using Yoast's SEO plugin and when I run a On Page report card here on SEOMOZ it says there are 2 descriptions tags I've been trying to fix this but can't (I'm new!) Anyone any ideas on this? Thanks Elaine

                              On-Page Optimization | | elaineryan
                              0
                            • dawsonski

                              Do I need a Meta description for every page?

                              HI Guys, We have just developed a new website and I'm looking to add meta descriptions with relevant key words to the pages . As the site has over 80 pages it is quite an undertaking and i was wandering if pages, such as  the shopping cart  and FAQ's etc,  need meta  descriptions as well? Thanks in advance : ) Pete

                              On-Page Optimization | | dawsonski
                              0
                            • PHDAustralia68

                              Missing meta descriptions on indexed pages, portfolio, tags, author and archive pages. I am using SEO all in one, any advice?

                              I am having a few problems that I can't seem to work out.....I am fairly new to this and can't seem to work out the following: Any help would be greatly appreciated 🙂 1. I am missing alot of meta description tags. I have installed "All in One SEO" but there seems to be no options to add meta descriptions in portfolio posts. I have also written meta descriptions for 'tags' and whilst I can see them in WP they don't seem to be activated. 2. The blog has pages indexed by WP- called Part 2 (/page/2), Part 3 (/page/3) etc. How do I solve this issue of meta descriptions and indexed pages? 3. There is also a page for myself, the author, that has multiple indexes for all the blog posts I have written, and I can't edit these archives to add meta descriptions. This also applies to the month archives for the blog. 4. Also, SEOmoz tells me that I have too many links on my blog page (also indexed) and their consequent tags. This also applies to the author pages (myself ). How do I fix this? Thanks for your help 🙂 Regards Nadia

                              On-Page Optimization | | PHDAustralia68
                              0
                            • jimmartin_zoho.com

                              Is there an SEO penalty for text that appears only in a pop-up box when you hover the mouse over an icon?

                              A client of mine wants to streamline the look of his web pages, taking some of the visible body copy and putting it into boxes that pop up when you hover the mouse over an icon. My understanding is that search engines will index this pop-up text. However, do they penalize pages that have text in pop-up boxes out of concern that those pages are spammy? In this case, the text and the page are perfectly legitimate e-commerce pages. Thanks for any insights you can offer.

                              On-Page Optimization | | jimmartin_zoho.com
                              0

                            Get started with Moz Pro!

                            Unlock the power of advanced SEO tools and data-driven insights.

                            Start my free trial
                            Products
                            • Moz Pro
                            • Moz Local
                            • Moz API
                            • Moz Data
                            • STAT
                            • Product Updates
                            Moz Solutions
                            • SMB Solutions
                            • Agency Solutions
                            • Enterprise Solutions
                            • Digital Marketers
                            Free SEO Tools
                            • Domain Authority Checker
                            • Link Explorer
                            • Keyword Explorer
                            • Competitive Research
                            • Brand Authority Checker
                            • Local Citation Checker
                            • MozBar Extension
                            • MozCast
                            Resources
                            • Blog
                            • SEO Learning Center
                            • Help Hub
                            • Beginner's Guide to SEO
                            • How-to Guides
                            • Moz Academy
                            • API Docs
                            About Moz
                            • About
                            • Team
                            • Careers
                            • Contact
                            Why Moz
                            • Case Studies
                            • Testimonials
                            Get Involved
                            • Become an Affiliate
                            • MozCon
                            • Webinars
                            • Practical Marketer Series
                            • MozPod
                            Connect with us

                            Contact the Help team

                            Join our newsletter
                            Moz logo
                            © 2021 - 2025 SEOMoz, Inc., a Ziff Davis company. All rights reserved. Moz is a registered trademark of SEOMoz, Inc.
                            • Accessibility
                            • Terms of Use
                            • Privacy

                            Looks like your connection to Moz was lost, please wait while we try to reconnect.